Busy last few days for Guy Boucher.
Boucher, the former Tampa Bay bench boss who’s been coaching in Switzerland, has reportedly had discussions with GM Ray Shero about the Devils’ vacant gig -- this after Boucher lost out on the Toronto job, which went to Mike Babcock.
News of Boucher speaking to New Jersey, reported on Wednesday by TVA, shouldn’t come as a huge surprise. He’s held in relatively high regard despite getting fired by the Bolts after just two-and-a-half seasons in charge; last year he led Bern to a second-place finish in the Swiss National League A, and a playoff semifinal appearance.
(He’s also in good standing with Hockey Canada, for what that’s worth. Boucher, along with Dave Cameron and Willie Desjardins, made up the talented assistant coaching staff to Pat Quinn at the 2009 World Juniors, and Boucher was picked by Hockey Canada to coach its team at the 2014 Spengler Cup.)
According to TSN, the Maple Leafs -- who were unsure if they’d land Babcock -- flew Boucher in from Switzerland this week after team president Brendan Shanahan interviewed him at the World Championships. TSN also reported that the Leafs may be interested in bringing Boucher aboard as one of Babcock’s assistants but, with head coaching jobs still available in New Jersey, San Jose, Buffalo and -- technically -- Detroit, it stands to reason that Boucher will keep his options open for the time being.