COLUMBUS, Ohio, Nov. 14 (UPI) -- Gary Agnew has been promoted to interim head coach of the NHL's Columbus Blue Jackets, replacing Gerard Gallant, who was fired.
Gallant, who had a 56-76-10 record, was removed as head coach Monday after about 22 months in the position. Agnew, who was an assistant with the Blue Jackets, coaches his first game Wednesday at home against Nashville.
Agnew coached Columbus's America Hockey League affiliate in Syracuse for six seasons before joining the Blue Jackets as an assistant this summer. He takes over a team with a 5-9-1 record and is in last place in the NHL's Central Division.
"A lot of hockey remains to be played this season," said Blue Jackets President and General Manager Doug MacLean. "Despite our disappointing start, we remain committed to building a team that will be successful on the ice. Gary is an excellent coach who knows our players well and we're confident he'll do an outstanding job."
