CHICAGO, May 19 (UPI) -- Despite finishing with the worst record in the Western Conference, the Chicago Blackhawks signed coach Brian Sutter to a contract extension Wednesday.
Sutter is the brother of former Blackhawks coach Darryl Sutter, who has guided the Calgary Flames to the Western Conference finals this season.
The Blackhawks finished 20-43-11-8 for 59 points this season. Only the Pittsburgh Penguins had fewer points, but General Manager Bob Pulford decided to stick with his coach.
"I am very satisfied and excited about our coaching staff," Pulford said. "We were struck by key injuries early last season and Brian Sutter did a very good job with the talent we had. I think we can make improvements to our team and Brian deserves a chance to coach that team."
Denis Savard was retained as an assistant, but Al MacAdam was not. Bruce Cassidy, who was hired as a scout by the Blackhawks in January after being fired as coach of the Washington Capitals, will replace MacAdam.
