Eberle Talks Coaches

There has been a lot of turnover in the coaching ranks both in the WHL and the NHL recently. Last week both the Regina Pats and Edmonton Oilers hired their new coaches, one of which will have the pleasure of having young star Jordan Eberle on their team.

Eberle was picked in the first round by the Oilers at last year's entry draft, so he'll head to camp this fall and tryout for his old World Jr. Coach Pat Quinn. If the Oilers choose to season their budding talent for another year, he'll return to the Pats who are now back under the guidance of Curtis Hunt. Here's some of the things Eberle had to say about his coaches:

Q) What do you think about the Pats bringing Curtis Hunt back?
EBERLE: It's tough to see Dale (Derkatch) go but, Huntsy, obviously the records we had with him here was tremendous. He's a great coach and everyone respects him.

Q) Is it exciting to know Hunt spent a year coaching in the NHL? Will it help you?
EBERLE: He's going to be a guy that's learned a lot in the last year. He's seen the Spezza's and Heatley's. The thing for me going into the season, I want to win.

Q) What kind of coach is Curtis Hunt?
EBERLE: He's not a big screamer and yeller but he's got this look that you know if he's not happy and he looks at you. In that way, he portrays himself, it's awesome. He credits guys, but when you're not playing well, he'll definitely let you know.

Q) What do you think about Edmonton hiring Pat Quinn?
EBERLE: (Laughing) I was pretty excited when I heard that. I've had him for two tournaments now. He's one of the better coaches I've ever had. He has that respect level with him. He's done so well with Hockey Canada and obviously being an NHL coach for a long time.

Q) Do you think its a big benefit that you've left an impression on Quinn already?
EBERLE: For him being familiar with me, I think that's something I'm excited about. I'm glad he got the job and its good to see a familiar face.

Eberle is in Calgary, working out and playing some golf for the short summer. He'll be back on the ice at the Oilers spring camp in late June, then to the World Jr. summer camp in August.