Canucks extend coach Alain Vigneault’s contract

Vancouver, BC, Canada (AHN Sports) – The Vancouver Canucks have extended the contract of head coach Alain Vigneault, putting them in a position for more Stanley Cup chases in the future.

The 51-year-old Vigneault will continue to be the Canucks chief tactician after guiding the franchise to five postseason appearances in the last six year, including a stint in the 2011 Stanley Cup finals.

Under Vigneault’s tutelage, the Canucks gained the highest winning percentage in franchise history (.634) with a 287-155-50 record over six seasons.

He has also spearheaded the Canucks to second straight Presidents’ trophy after finishing with the best record in the regular-season for 2010-2011 and 2011-2012.

Canucks President and General Manager Mike Gillis lauded the success achieved by Vigneault since he arrived in 2006 and hope another great season would lead to the franchise’ first Stanley Cup crown.

“Alain has established himself as one of the premiere coaches in the National Hockey League,” Gillis said in a statement Wednesday. “He has demonstrated a commitment to winning that has led to back-to-back Presidents’ Trophies and we are confident his dedication and hard work will continue to yield positive results. Alain has built a foundation of winning with this franchise and I feel he can continue to build on that foundation to achieve our ultimate goal.”

The Canucks were stunned by the 8th seeded and eventual Western Conference titlist Los Angeles Kings in five games, but that won’t stop Vigneault from dreaming big for his team.

“I am pleased to be signing this extension to continue as the Head Coach of such an outstanding organization,” Vigneault said in a statement Wednesday. “I look forward to taking the next step with this franchise in bringing the Stanley Cup to Vancouver. I feel fortunate to be able to work with such a dedicated group of management, coaches and players in this great city I love.”

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