In a surprising turn of events for the Minnesota Wild, Scott Stevens will not be back behind the bench next season. The assistant coach and legendary NHL defenseman has resigned to spend more time with his family. After just one year with the club, the Wild said goodbye to their outgoing coach in a press release: 
We thank Scott for the hard work and dedication he provided our team this past season. We respect his decision to spend more time with his family and wish him the best in his future endeavors.
Stevens previously had coached in New Jersey where he held both assistant and “co-coach” duties with Adam Oates. Now, as a Minnesota assistant he had been expected to be on a straight line to the head coaching fraternity in the NHL. While this obviously doesn’t prevent him from eventually getting there, it does at least slow down his development behind the bench.
Now 53, Stevens was one of the most fearsome defensemen in NHL history during his playing days. A veteran of 1635 games, the bone-crushing hitter also had an incredible offensive streak to his game and recorded 908 points, including a career-high of 78 in 1993-94. He won Stanley Cups in 1995, 2000 and 2003 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007.
The Wild have yet to begin a search for his replacement, but will have big shoes to fill as they try to repeat as one of the best defensive clubs in the league.
Michael Russo of the Star Tribune had the report minutes before the team release.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images
Incredible player, nothing but respect as a player, wish there were more like him.