NHL News: John Muckler passes away at 86, USA vs Canada for WJC Gold, and more
Anthony Scultore
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Hockey lost one of its great coaches as John Muckler of Edmonton Oilers dynasty fame has passed away at age 86. Although he never played in the NHL, he left his mark as a coach and general manager. RIP.
NHL News: John Muckler passes away at 86
The Edmonton Oilers and legendary star Wayne Gretzky released a statement that read:
“On behalf of the Edmonton Oilers organization and John’s many friends in the game of hockey, I want to extend my heartfelt condolences to Audrey and the entire Muckler family. When you have 22 pretty good hockey players and have enjoyed some success it’s hard imagine that the addition of an Associate Coach would be the final piece to getting the Edmonton Oilers to the top of the mountain, but that’s exactly what happened when John joined the team.
He was tough, strict, but most importantly fair, and he helped lay the groundwork to make our team more accountable to each other which propelled us to become champions. A wonderful family man and great friend, he personally took my career to another level, and I will always cherish the hours we talked, from breaking down defenses to raising a family. Rest in peace, John, you will be missed.”
Wayne Gretzky / Edmonton Oilers
USA vs CANADA for WJC Gold
Team Canada dominated Russia for a 5-0 victory, while the U.S. edged Finland 4-3 on a late third period goal. The two national hockey powerhouses will go toe-to-toe for Gold at 7:30 PM ET.
The Canadians really took it to the Russians for the entire game. It was a show of force led by Dylan Cozens who notched a goal and two assists. Devon Levi’s 27 save shutout was just icing on the cake. They go in to the final game as the favorites to win it all.
The U.S. looked like they had a firm handle on the game until the relentless Finns mounted a comeback to knot it at three. That’s where the Arty-Party started. Arthur Kaliyev scored the game winner with about a minute to play to send the U.S. to the Gold Medal game.
Three AHL teams have opted out of play
Three teams will not play the AHL season. It should be noted they all have NHL affiliates. At this time Blues affiliate, Milwaukee Admirals will be sending players to Vancouver’s affiliate, Utica Comets.
The other two teams are still making plans.