HabsWorld.net -- 

The Habs were greeted with a surprise as they came in for Saturday’s morning
skate as the team announced the firing of head coach Jacques Martin.  Randy
Cunneyworth has been given the title of interim head coach for the remainder of
the season while assistant GM Larry Carriere joins the coaching staff, taking
over Cunneyworth’s old role.

Martin was in his 3rd season with the Canadiens, compiling a 96-75-25 record
over that stretch.  His most successful playoff stint was in his first year
as the Habs took out Washington and Pittsburgh en route to the 3rd round. 
The Jack Adams Award winner in 1999 had this season and one more remaining on
his current four year contract.  It is not known at this time whether or
not he will be re-assigned within the organization as Perry Pearn was earlier
this season.

Cunneyworth has yet to be a head coach at the NHL level but has plenty of
experience from his days in the AHL.  He spent seven years coaching with
Rochester of the AHL, winning their coach of the year award, the Louis A.R.
Pieri Memorial Award, back in 2005.  He also coached the Hamilton Bulldogs
last season.  NHL wise, this was his second stint as an assistant coach
having spent two seasons with Atlanta.

Carriere is getting into his first foray of coaching.  The former NHL
blueliner (with 367 games of experience) will retain his original title of
Assistant GM while he steps behind the bench.

What are your thoughts on the decision to fire Martin?  Weigh in with
your thoughts on the

HW Forums.