Kings Fire Coach Willie Desjardins To End Dismal Season

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Kings dismissed interim head coach Willie Desjardins Sunday, one day after the team finished the 2018-19 season with the second fewest points in the National Hockey League.

"Today we thanked Willie Desjardins for his effort and dedication while serving as our interim head coach," Kings Vice President and General Manager Rob Blake said. "We wish Willie and his family nothing but the best going forward. The process for hiring our next head coach is underway and we look forward to conducting a thorough search for the right person to lead our team."

Desjardins, 61, also coached the Vancouver Canucks from 2014-17.

He had replaced fired head coach John Stevens on Nov. 4, but the Kings were never able to turn their season around. They finished with a record of 31-42-9, missing the NHL playoffs for the second time in the last three seasons, and their minus-61 goal differential was the league's worst.

Desjardins' record as interim head coach was 27-34-8.

The Kings won their season finale, 5-2, over the Vegas Golden Knights at Staples Center on Saturday.

City News Service