Joel Quenneville becomes second NHL coach with 1,000 wins - ESPN
ESPN
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Joel Quenneville achieved a historic milestone on February 26, 2026, becoming the second NHL coach in history to reach 1,000 wins. His Anaheim Ducks secured this achievement with a dramatic 6-5 victory over the Edmonton Oilers, overcoming multiple deficits and ending in a thrilling overtime goal by Cutter Gauthier. Quenneville joined an elite club previously held only by Scotty Bowman, who reached the milestone in 1997. This win marked Quenneville's 1,825th game behind the bench, capping a remarkable career.
Quenneville's journey to this achievement is deeply tied to his storied coaching history. After beginning his NHL head coaching career with the St. Louis Blues in 2004, he led teams like the Colorado Avalanche and Chicago Blackhawks, where he won three Stanley Cups between 2008 and 2017. However, his tenure with the Blackhawks ended abruptly in 2018 due to an NHL suspension related to his handling of allegations involving former player Kyle Beach. Despite this setback, Quenneville returned to coaching in 2023 when the Ducks hired him to turn around a struggling franchise. This season, Anaheim has surged into playoff contention under his leadership.
Quenneville's longevity and success make him a legendary figure in NHL history. With 26 seasons of head coaching experience and three Stanley Cup titles, he has left an indelible mark on the game. His ability to guide teams back to prominence, as demonstrated with the Ducks, underscores his resilience and adaptability as a coach. Quenneville's milestone win not only cements his legacy but also inspires future generations of hockey leaders.
This achievement matters because it highlights Quenneville's remarkable perseverance and skill in navigating both triumphs and challenges throughout his career. His journey reflects the importance of leadership, accountability, and resilience in sports—qualities that resonate with fans and athletes alike. As one of only two coaches to reach 1,000 wins, Quenneville's story
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Originally published on ESPN on 2/26/2026