Anaheim Ducks Part Ways with Coach Greg Cronin After Two Seasons

Anaheim, California — The Anaheim Ducks announced Saturday that head coach Greg Cronin will not return for the upcoming season, marking the end of his tenure after two seasons.

In a statement released by the team, General Manager Pat Verbeek thanked Cronin for his commitment and contributions to the team. “He is responsible in many ways for the improvement we’ve seen from our young core,” Verbeek said. “However, after several weeks of careful evaluation, I concluded we needed a change in direction and a new voice. This was an extremely difficult decision for me to make, but I felt it was necessary to continue our progress toward becoming the Stanley Cup contenders that I know we can be.”

During Cronin’s time with the Ducks, the team posted a 62-87-15 overall record. The 2024-25 season saw slight improvement, with the Ducks finishing at 35-37-10, accumulating 80 points, a notable increase from the previous year’s low of 59 points. Despite this improvement, the Ducks missed the playoffs for a seventh consecutive season, leaving fans and management frustrated.

Under Cronin’s leadership, the Ducks struggled defensively, ranking 23rd in team defense. The team’s goaltenders combined for a .901 save percentage, which was ninth best in the NHL. However, the offense continued to falter, placing 30th on the offensive charts during both of Cronin’s seasons.

Fans expressed concerns over Cronin’s player deployment, particularly regarding younger players. Promising talent such as centers Leo Carlson and rookie winger could not be fully utilized, which became a point of contention. Notably, the Ducks’ top forwards averaged significantly high ice times, further igniting debate about Cronin’s strategic choices.

There was also disappointment regarding the development of 24-year-old center who faced challenges under Cronin’s guidance, managing only 29 points in 88 games that were marred by injuries. “It’s a rebuild,” Cronin stated last week when asked about his future with the team. “I don’t compare to others. This is a complete rebuild; you’re going with young guys.”

Cronin, 61, was hired in June 2023 after serving as head coach for the AHL’s Colorado Eagles. This was his first role as an NHL head coach, following a rich coaching resume that included positions with the Toronto Maple Leafs and New York Islanders.

The decision to part ways with Cronin comes as the Ducks continue their quest to regain a competitive edge in the NHL, aiming to develop their young roster and ultimately return to playoff contention.

Verbeek is expected to address the media regarding the coaching change later in the day, and further updates on the situation will follow.