Ottawa, Ontario – The Ottawa Senators shocked many when they recently announced Travis Green as their next head coach. Green’s name wasn’t initially on the radar for potential coaching candidates, with speculation focusing on other seasoned coaches like Craig Berube and Todd McLellan. However, in a swift turn of events, Green emerged as a serious contender for the position after being interviewed by Senators management.
Green, who previously served as the associate coach in New Jersey, was initially expected to continue with the Devils. But now, it appears that he will be stepping into the head coaching role in Ottawa. The announcement is likely to coincide with the NHL Draft Lottery, where the Senators are participants. This move has raised some skepticism among Senators fans, given Green’s track record as a coach.
In his six seasons as an NHL head coach with Vancouver and New Jersey, Green compiled a record of 141-159-35 in 335 games. While his points percentage of .473 may not place him among the most successful coaches, Green’s coaching style has shown promise, particularly in his ability to develop young players. As a coach, Green has demonstrated openness to advanced stats and analytics, a quality that could benefit the Senators’ gameplay.
Green’s tenure in Vancouver came to an end abruptly in the middle of the 2021-22 season when he was relieved of his duties alongside general manager Jim Benning. Despite facing challenges in Vancouver, Green’s tactical strengths and commitment to player development could make him a good fit for the Senators, according to analysts. Green’s coaching style, known for its organization and attention to detail, might bring stability and improvement to the Senators’ performance on the ice.
Before his coaching career, Green had a successful playing career in the NHL, playing 970 games over 14 seasons. He was known for his gritty play, particularly during his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he was a central figure in some intense matchups with the Ottawa Senators. Green’s transition from player to coach was a natural progression for him, as he had always envisioned a future in coaching after his playing days were over.
Overall, Green’s appointment as the Senators’ head coach represents a new chapter for the team. As fans await the official announcement and Green’s first press conference, there is anticipation and curiosity about how his coaching style will impact the team’s performance in the upcoming season. Time will tell if Green can lead the Senators to new heights and bring success to the franchise.