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John Quenneville stands by his July statement ahead of Gary Bettman meeting

Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X October 28, 2021
1 1 minute read

Joel Quenneville is sticking to his remarks.

The former Chicago Blackhawks head coach and current bench boss of the Florida Panthers told reporters on Wednesday that he stands by a statement he made in the summer regarding allegations of sexual assault made by a former player against then-Blackhawks video coach Brad Aldrich in 2010.

While Jenner & Block’s investigation into the claim revealed that Quenneville was privy to a May 23, 2010 meeting in which the allegations against Aldrich were spoken about among senior management, the 63-year-old stands by his July 13 statement.

“I first learned of these allegations through the media earlier this summer,” Quenneville said in the July statement made through the Panthers. “I have contacted the Blackhawks organization to let them know I will support and participate in the independent review. Out of respect for all those involved, I won’t comment further while this matter is before the courts.”

Asked whether he remains behind the statement on Wednesday during a scrum ahead of a game against the Boston Bruins, Quenneville answered, “I do, but I can’t comment.”

Quenneville added that he will not speak on the matter anymore until he meets with NHL commissioner Gary Bettman on Thursday. He will travel to New York to meet with the commissioner at the league office.

In the wake of the findings on Tuesday, Bettman announced his intentions to meet with both Quenneville and then-Blackhawks assistant general manager and current Winnipeg Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff, two of the attendees at the May 23 meeting mentioned in the report.

On Tuesday, Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman stepped down and the team announced that all senior management from the 2010 season are no longer with the club.

Quenneville was fired by the Blackhawks midway through his 10th season as coach in 2018. With the Blackhawks, Quenneville coached the team to three Stanley Cups in a six-year period from 2010 to 2015.

Having also coached the St. Louis Blues and Colorado Avalanche, Quenneville is in his third season with the Panthers. His 962 career victories as a coach are second all-time behind only Scotty Bowman’s 1,244.

Igor Burdetskiy

Igor Burdetskiy

Founder, Editor-in-Chief, & CEO at Hooked on Hockey Magazine
I grew up playing Ball and Roller Hockey day and night somewhat religiously throughout elementary and middle school. The two don't compare though when I lace up the skates and hit the ice. I live and breathe hockey beyond the perspective of "it's just a game" and I will gladly talk hockey for hours with anyone. Hockey is more than just a lifestyle, it's a culture of passionate people who make memories every time the puck is dropped. Hockey has not only helped me get through some of the hardest times in life but has created some of the best memories to date. Want to talk hockey with me? Shoot me an email: iburdetskiy@hookedonhockey.com and let's talk some hockey!
Igor Burdetskiy
Photo of Igor Burdetskiy Igor Burdetskiy Follow on X October 28, 2021
1 1 minute read
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