A source within Pittsburgh's organization told Pens Initiative the story behind the apparent coaching issues that have hamstrung the Penguins' efforts in procuring a new coach. The problems start near the top, but not at the management level most fans think.
The issues began with the proposed hiring of Bill Peters. His possible appointment, rumored to be all but done, led to assistant coaches being brought on by new Associate GM Jason Botterill in anticipation of the assumed head coaching hire.
Unfortunately, in acquiring the assistants ahead of time, and against the advice of new GM Jim Rutherford, Botterill put the proverbial cart before the horse, and once the hiring of Peters fell through, the Penguins' coaching team became an army without a general.
The only name mentioned (outside of Peters) by our source was Rick Tocchet, who is said to already be on board as an assistant coach.
To recap: Our source within the team says that Peters was offered the position, and Peters' hiring was believed to be a sure thing. Botterill went against the wishes of Rutherford and hired a staff for the assumed new coach. Now, the Penguins are stuck without a coach but have hired assistants, very likely including Rick Tocchet.
More information as it becomes available.
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