As the search continues for a new head coach, the Florida Panthers can add Larry Robinson to their shortlist.
Whether it’s playing or coaching, Larry Robinson has made quite the name for himself around the league. As a player, Robinson has played 17 seasons with the Montreal Canadiens, while finishing his career with the LA Kings. During his time in the NHL, he had the honor of winning 2 Norris trophies and 1 Conn Smythe. Not bad at all if I must say.
In regards to coaching, Larry was the assistant coach for the New Jersey Devils from 93 to 95. After the 1994-95 season, Robinson was named the new head coach for the LA Kings. This would be his first opportunity becoming a head coach in the NHL. During his 4 years spent coaching the Kings, the furthest Larry’s team would make it was the first round. They would end up losing as well.
After 4 years spent with LA, Robinson would spend the next 8 seasons with the New Jersey devils. He’d flip back and forth between head and assistant coach. The 1999-00 season ended up being Larry’s best year as head coach. He’d go on to lead his team to a Stanley Cup victory. This would mark the first time that Robinson won the cup as a head coach. Unfortunately though, this would be the first and the last.
In his 8 years spent with New Jersey, Larry was the assistant coach 5 times and head coach 3 times. During the 2001-02 season, Robinson spent the first half as head coach and was placed as assistant for the second half. After 8 years spent coaching the Devils, Larry moved on to the San Jose Sharks.
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Robinson was an “associate coach” for two years, while finishing the remaining three years as the director for player development. Larry will not be returning to the Sharks and will pursue a role in another organization.
As we all know, Robinson is a legend without any doubt and has a lot of experience in the league with coaching and playing. As his resume looks good on paper, it will be about the “fit” rather than the experience. Expect some more news about Dale interviewing Larry.