Firing Savard…Does it Makes Sense?

To say that Denis Savard was shocked to be fired as coach of the Chicago Blackhawks, only four games into the regular season, is an enormous understatement.

This former, 1980 Chicago Blackhawks’ draft pick, who enjoyed a Hall Of Fame playing career, was officially let go on Thursday, less than 24 hours after Chicago beat the Phoenix Coyotes 4-1.

“John (McDonough) and Rocky (Wirtz) made a commitment to the fans, that we were going to be in the playoffs,and (eventually) win the Stanley Cup,” Savard, who admitted to being extrememly shocked, said. “They probably thought somebody else would be better to get them there. I don’t know that.”

Savard, who led the team to a respectable 40-34-8 record last season, reflected on, how he believed that he did a good job mentoring all the rookies, which included their young developing superstars, Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews. He also believes that the team is progressing well. The only thing I can say is,  that last year I thought I did a heck of a job with our young kids,” said Savard. “We had a bit of a slow start this year, but I thought the team  was on the right track. I guess it goes with the territory. As a coach you’re judged on wins and losses.”

Since taking over in November 2006, the Hawks went 65-66-16. Even though he has been replaced by former Colorado Avalanche and St. Louis Blues coach, Joel Quenneville, Savard is still considered a speical part of the organization.

“Dennis is forever a part of our organization,” said general manager, Dale Tallon.

“This was an extrememly hard day for the organization, and for me personally.”

We made a tough decision, that we strongly feel is the right one, as we continue to evaluate our team and create a championship-calibre organization — that can sustain success.”

At the time of dismissal, the Hawks, who came into the season with huge expectations, were off to a 1-2-1 start.

Savard now joins Ivan Hlinka ( Pittsburgh Penguins) and Jacques Demers (Montreal Canadiens) as the quickest coaches, within the past 20 years, to be fired.

Tallon has made it clear that this decision was something management has been thinking about for quite some time.

“It was a flat camp and we came out of the gate flat,” said Tallon. “It just didn’t seem that we carried over the energy that we had to finish the year —last year. We felt we needed to send a message — and invigorate this team.”

Quenneville, has been described, by Tallon, as someone who brings a wealth of experience and — most important — a winning track record.

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