Panthers Give Head Coach Gallant Multi-Year Extension
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SUNRISE (CBSMiami) -- The Florida Panthers have announced that they have agreed to terms on a multi-year contract extension with Head Coach Gerard Gallant.
With an 11-3-0 record and 22 points, including a 7-game winning streak, Gallant has led the team to its most successful month in franchise history in just his second season as Head Coach of the Panthers.
"I'm thrilled to be signing an extension with the Panthers," Gallant said. "I want to thank our owner Vinnie Viola and his partner Doug Cifu for the confidence they have placed in me and their continued support. We've started to build a strong foundation with a great staff and group of players here in Florida. We want to continue to build on the recent success we've had and create a winning team for years to come."
The 52-year-old Canadian native was hired in June 2014 by Florida. In his first season behind the bench, the Panthers were the most improved team in the NHL. The Panthers finished the year 38-29-15 with 91 points, a 25-point improvement from the club's previous season.
"We are pleased to agree with Gerard on a multi-year extension," said General Manager Dale Tallon, who's contract was extended Friday. "He has done an excellent job of creating a winning culture and developing our young players in his time with the Panthers. He is an ideal fit for our group and we look forward to having him lead our team as we work towards our goal of winning the Stanley Cup."
Before getting the job with Florida, Gallant spent time as an assistant coach for the Montreal Canadiens, New York Islanders and Columbus Blue Jackets, and served time as Head Coach with Columbus for parts of three seasons in 2003-2004 and 2005-2007.
Gallant was taken in the 6th round by the Detroit Red Wings in the 1981 NHL Draft and ended his career as a player with Tampa Bay in 1995.
As per club policy, the terms of the contract were not released.
