Rich Clune, a former forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs, was being considered for an assistant coach post with the Anaheim Ducks, according to an article published on Thursday by NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman.
After repeatedly signing AHL deals with the team to stay with the Toronto Marlies, Clune was initially signed by the Toronto Maple Leafs shortly into the 2015–16 season by former general manager Lou Lamoriello. He remained with the team for almost ten years.
In his 19 games with the Maple Leafs during his inaugural campaign, he would record four assists. Clune would play 256 games and score 25 goals throughout his seven seasons with the Marlies. The Toronto native, who was well-liked in the locker room, began his career with the team as an alternate captain before winning the captaincy for the 2020–21 and 2021–22 campaigns.
Before moving to Toronto, Clune was selected by the Dallas Stars in the third round of the 2005 draft after registering 34 points in 67 games and 103 penalty minutes during his OHL draft season. Before being traded to the Los Angeles Kings in 2008, he would play for the Stars in the ECHL and AHL.
Clune would have to wait a few more years to return to the NHL, but he would make his debut in 2009–10, skating in 14 games and recording two points with the Kings. The forward, who had previously played for Sarnia Sting, got a contract to become the Nashville Predators’ enforcer and became a mainstay on the team for two seasons, playing 105 games in 2012–13 and 2013–14. However, in 2015, he signed a contract with Toronto, having spent all of 2014–15—all but one—in the AHL.
Ex-player for the Toronto Maple Leafs Seeking Coaching Position
Following the release of a documentary in 2020 detailing his struggles with substance misuse, Clune’s profile grew. It makes sense that once his playing career ended, he transitioned into coaching and spent seven years as one of the Marlies’ captains, as the movie portrays him as a personable, dynamic leader.
After serving as captain for two seasons, Clune decided to end his playing career, but he continued to work with the Toronto Maple Leafs in player development.
Under head coach John Gruden, he was named an assistant coach for the previous campaign, sharing the role with Mike Dyck and Eric Wellwood.
Recognized for his ability to lead, the Anaheim Ducks may have signed a promising young coach who will be able to mentor the team’s novice players.
