The Broad Street Blog

When Eric Desjardins retired from hockey two years ago, the Flyers and then GM Bob Clarke offered him a coaching position. Desjardins declined, saying he was emotionally drained and wanted to spend time with his family. But everyone knew, that it wouldn’t take long for him to recharge and be back involved in hockey in some form.

On Tuesday, the Flyers announced that Desjardins was returning to the organization as a Player Development Coach. A position that, according to the Courier-Post, was created specifically for him,

Stevens said the position was created for Desjardins after he volunteered to do advance scouting during the playoffs. Desjardins scouted the first-round series between the Canadiens and Bruins, and Flyers general manager Paul Holmgren was so impressed with Desjardins’ insight he asked him to be a developmental coach.

Flyers GM Paul Holmgren is looking for good things to come from Desjardins’ presence,

“Eric will be a great asset to the organization as he works with our young drafted players, helping them to prepare their game for the next level…Eric was a great Flyer and his experience will be invaluable to the young players in our system.”

Not only are the Flyers happy to see him back with the organization, Desjardins is also excited to be involved with Flyers again,

“When I left, I knew that I was a Flyer forever, but now that I’m back with the organization, it’s an honor,” said Desjardins. “I have a chance to work with the team again, and work with Paul Holmgren and the coaching staffs of the Flyers and Phantoms. It’s a great opportunity for me and I hope I can do a great job.”

If Rico is able to rub off on guys like Ryan Parent and first round draft pick Luca Sbisa, the Flyers’ defense corps will be in good shape.

As Desjardins is making his return to the organization, assistant coach Terry Murray makes his departure. The Los Angeles Kings are preparing to introduce Murray later today as their new head coach, replacing Marc Crawford.

Murray joined the Flyers as head coach in 1994. In his first season, he returned the Flyers to the playoffs after a five year absence. In his third season as coach, he guided the team to the Stanley Cup Finals. He was fired after the Flyers were swept by the Detroit Red Wings. After a stint with Florida Panthers, Murray rejoined the Flyers organization as a scout and then moved into an assistant coach role in 2003.

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