Raleigh, NC (SportsNetwork.com) - Exactly one week after being elevated to executive vice president and general manager of the Carolina Hurricanes, Ron Francis has already made his first major personnel move.
Francis made his mark Monday be relieving head coach Kirk Muller and assistant coaches John MacLean and Dave Lewis of their duties.
"We thank Kirk, John and Dave for their time and effort during the past three seasons," said Francis. "Kirk and his staff worked very hard, but we feel that the team is in need of a fresh start at this time."
In addition, the Hurricanes reassigned goaltending coach Greg Stefan to their pro scouting department. Assistant coach Rod Brind'Amour will remain on the coaching staff.
Muller compiled a record of 80-80-27 during three seasons behind the Hurricanes' bench. It was his first head coaching position in the NHL.
The Hurricanes, who have not made the playoffs since 2009, went 36-35-11 this past season.
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