hockeykid11

Sportsnet has learned that former NHL defenceman has left the commentary booth to the Edmonton Oilers coaching staff. Simpson is believed to join the team as an assistant coach this upcoming season. Simpson is expected to assist in the offence compartment, which the Oilers greatly need. http://www.edmontonoilers.com/

slapshot™

From the Oilers:

The Edmonton Oilers have named Craig Simpson to the position of assistant coach, joining Charlie Huddy and Billy Moores on Craig MacTavish's staff.

General Manager Kevin Lowe says the addition of Simpson to the coaching staff brings another dimension to the team, and he expects the 36-year-old former Oiler to assist the offense, especially in the area of positioning and shooting. Lowe says, "Simmer had great hands as a player, but a lot of his scoring prowess came from his ability to get into position, and to hold his ground. He also is a an exceptional communicator, so he won't have any trouble getting his point across."

Simpson is sixth all-time on the Oilers' goal scoring charts with 185, and 10th in both assists (180) and points (365). He holds the distinction of being the last Oiler to register 50 goals in a season, accumulating 56 in 1987-88, the year he was acquired from the Pittsburgh Penguins. His playing career was cut short after only 10 seasons as a result of a back injury he suffered in 1993.

Coach MacTavish says he is very pleased to have Simpson on board; "It's going to be great having Simmer's input because he is enthusiastic and has a great feel for the game. His experience the last few years as a broadcaster with the team gives him a perspective that we don't always see, and I look forward to working with him."

Simpson says he can't wait for the season to start. In his words, "This is exactly what I wanted to happen, and I can't express how excited I am. This is a young, exceptionally talented team, and working with Mac, Charlie and Billy will be a great experience."

hockeyfanatic

That's awesome! Lets see if he can help in the oilers playoff-run.

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slapshot™

I'm guessing Lowe brought Simpson in to work on the Oiler's dismal PP. "General Manager Kevin Lowe says...he expects the 36-year-old former Oiler to assist the offense, especially in the area of positioning and shooting. Lowe says, "Simmer had great hands as a player, but a lot of his scoring prowess came from his ability to get into position, and to hold his ground."

The PP is one area the Oil are sorely lacking in.

hockeykid11

That is a move that the Oilers needed. They should be able to improve on last year PP and try to get more goals. I'm sure Simpson will do a great job, and the Oilers will continue to clinch a playoff spot.