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Toronto – Toronto Maple Leafs management, led by Senior Vice President and General Manager David Nonis with input and support from team president Brendan Shanahan, extended the contract of head coach Randy Carlyle by two years on Thursday after a thorough team review following the end of the 2013-14 season. Nonis announced at the same time that assistant coaches Dave Farrish, Scott Gordon and Greg Cronin would not return to the team next season.

“It was important, after a disappointing end to the season and the arrival of Brendan as team president, to conduct a thorough review of the organization as we continue the work of building a winning tradition and culture for the Maple Leafs,” said Nonis. “That process started with the head coach, and as we analyzed it, we decided together that Randy Carlyle was the right person to lead this team. In Randy we know that we have a leader who has enjoyed a high level of success as both a player and a coach, including a Stanley Cup championship. It was important that the positives Randy brings to our team were not overshadowed by a finish to the season that we all must take responsibility for.”

Randy Carlyle, 58, was named the 28th Head Coach in Toronto Maple Leafs history on March 2, 2012. Carlyle became the 16th individual to have both played for the Maple Leafs and then taken on the reins as the team’s coach. The Sudbury, Ontario native played 94 games for the Blue and White from 1976 to 1978, registering two goals and 16 assists. In Carlyle’s first complete season (2012-13) coaching the Leafs, the team compiled a record of 26-17-5, finished fifth in the Eastern Conference and gained a playoff berth. He registered his 300th career NHL win April 6, 2013 at New Jersey.

Carlyle, a former James Norris Trophy winner with the Pittsburgh Penguins, previously spent seven seasons as the Anaheim Ducks’ head coach. He led the Ducks to their first Stanley Cup championship (2007), Pacific Division championship (2007) and five playoff appearances (2005-09, 2011).

“I want to thank Dave, Scott and Greg for their many contributions to the organization,” said Nonis. “Their experience, leadership and outstanding work ethic have been invaluable and we wish them continued success as coaches in the NHL.”

“I appreciate the support of Brendan, Dave and the entire organization and am looking forward to working with them to get the Maple Leafs back into the playoffs,” said Carlyle. “We have a strong foundation here and everyone wants to get back to work to deliver the results that we know this team is capable of. At the same time, I’d like to extend my gratitude to my assistant coaching staff. Their contributions will continue to be an important part of this team’s success in the future, and for me personally, will always be reflected in me as a head coach.”

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