Phoenix Coyotes Name Newell Brown New Assistant Coach

Former Vancouver Canucks Assistant Coach Newell Brown accepted the same position with the Phoenix Coyotes on Wednesday. Brown will be replacing Assistant Coach John Anderson, who had been in Phoenix since 2011, on Dave Tippett's coaching staff.

Brown was with the Vancouver organization for the past three seasons, during which time the team won the President's Trophy twice and an appearance in the Stanley Cup Final. Vancouver decided to change directions after last season, letting Alain Vigneault, Brown, and Assistant Coach Rick Bowness go; at this point all three have found new jobs with NHL teams.

"It's a real thrill," Brown said about joining the Coyotes organization, "It was a good fit."

Brown will most likely be working the Coyotes power play unit, which has struggled for a very long time. He will likely be spending a lot of time with free agent acquisition Mike Ribeiro, who was also brought in part for his power play prowess. During the 2010-11 season, Brown helped Vancouver finish the season with the NHL's best power play at 24.3 percent, and hopes to do the same in Phoenix.

Brown has coached in the NHL since the 1996-97 season, working for the Anaheim Ducks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Chicago Blackhawks. He also spent time with the Redwings' AHL affiliate and was Head Coach of Michigan Tech University and Assistant Coach at Michigan State. He also coached Team Canada to the silver medal at the 1988 Spengler Cup.