Following a tumultuous season, the San Jose Sharks have made a significant coaching change, parting ways with head coach David Quinn and head athletic trainer Ray Tufts. The announcement comes after a thorough evaluation process conducted by the team’s management.
Quinn’s tenure with the Sharks was marked by a string of disappointing results, with the team posting a dismal 41-98-25 record over two seasons. Despite signing a three-year contract in 2022, Quinn failed to meet expectations, as the Sharks struggled mightily on the defensive end, allowing 326 goals, the third-most in the salary-cap era.
General Manager Mike Grier expressed gratitude for Quinn’s efforts but emphasized the need for a change to move the team forward. Quinn’s lone previous head coaching stint was with the New York Rangers from 2019 to 2021, where he led a young team featuring Alexis Lafreniere and Kaapo Kakko. However, after missing the playoffs in 2020-21, Quinn was dismissed with two years remaining on his contract.
Ray Tufts, who had been with the Sharks organization for 26 seasons, will also be leaving the team. The 59-year-old served as the head athletic trainer for Team USA at the 2010 Winter Olympics and was a valuable asset to the Sharks.
The Sharks, who were projected to finish last in the league this season, will now embark on a search for a new head coach. The team is expected to be led by presumptive 2024 first overall pick Macklin Celebrini, who is highly regarded as a potential franchise cornerstone.
