Aug 9, 2007, 20:30 GMT
Chicago, IL - The Chicago Blackhawks announced on Thursday that the contract of head coach Denis Savard has been extended through the 2008-09 season.
Savard finished last season with a record of 24-30-7 after taking over for Trent Yawney, who was fired on November 27.
'I'm delighted and excited to be a part of what we all feel will be an exciting team this season,' said Savard. 'I believe we have a good combination of youth and experience to make this a very exciting team to watch. I can't wait for training camp to start.'
Prior to taking over for Yawney, Savard had been an assistant coach with Chicago for four years and spent 17 seasons in the NHL, 12 with the Blackhawks.
The seven-time All-Star posted 473 goals and 865 assists in 1,196 career games.
'We were very satisfied with the job Denis did last season and we feel he has earned this opportunity,' said general manager Dale Tallon. 'Denis has been a part of the Blackhawks organization for a long time. We know that he will put his heart and soul into coaching this team just as he did as a player.'
© 2007 The Sports Network
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