Chicago Blackhawks: Coach Luke Richardson reflects on his time in Montreal

BET À DAY

Assistant to Claude Julien, Dominique Ducharme and Martin St-Louis for his four seasons with the Canadiens (from 2018-2019 to 2021-2022), Luke Richardson inherited for the first time the position of head coach of an NHL team.

On June 27, Richardson became the 40th head coach in Chicago Blackhawks history. From a rebuilding team with CH, the 53-year-old moved to another team in the midst of rebuilding. 

“I like Luke, he's good for this team,” said winger Patrick Kane. He teaches, but he also wants to win. It also includes the position of the team. I like the way he acts as a coach.

In Chicago, Richardson will need to be patient. Prior to the visit to Montreal, the Blackhawks had won just 16 of their first 51 games (16-30-5). 

The Mythic Aspect

For the first time this season, the former defenseman skated on the ice at the Bell Center to lead the Hawks' morning practice. 

“Yes, it's special for me to come back here to Montreal,” said Richardson. I was proud to belong to the organization of the Canadian. I feel the same pride with the Hawks. There is a mythical thing with the original six teams. I have been a member of three of the six teams. There is a lot of media attention.

Before getting the job with the Blackhawks, Richardson had head coaching experience only in the American League with the Binghamton Senators (from 2012-13 to 2015-16 ).