The Nottingham Panthers have ‘parted company’ with head coach Gary Graham just 192 days into his tenure.
Graham, who arrived at the Motorpoint Arena after spending most of his coaching career with the ECHL’s Fort Wayne Comets, exits with a record of 6-8-1 in the Elite League.
He also guided the Panthers to the knockout phase of the Challenge Cup with four wins and four defeats in Group C.
“Unfortunately, results have not been what the club was looking for,” explained chief executive Omar Pacha. “We feel making a change and bringing in a new voice will help give new direction to the group.
“I’d like to thank Gary for his time with the club and all his hard work throughout the season and the summer period. We wish him all the best for the future.”
Corey Neilson seals Panthers return, replaces Gary Graham
With the Panthers sixth in the Elite League, they moved quickly to appoint Corey Neilson as Gary Graham’s replacement until the end of the season.
The 46-year-old has spent the last four seasons on the continent, which saw him win the DEL2 Coach of the Year Award in 2018-19.
Neilson first joined the Panthers in 2006, which saw him win two trophies with the club as a player.
The former third round pick of the Edmonton Oilers became head coach two years later, an appointment which saw the franchise lift the Elite League (x1), postseason crown (x4), Challenge Cup (x6), and Continental Cup (x1)
“The call to come back to Nottingham was strong [and] I am looking forward to the challenge,” Neilson explained.
“I want things to be better. I love the Nottingham Panthers, I always have – ever since I walked through the door. I think this is a great opportunity to take some positive strides.”
Corey Neilson returns to the Nottingham Panthers, replacing Gary Graham (Image: Elite League)
Pacha added: “I truly believe he’s the best man for this job. It’s a great added bonus that he loves the club. He knows what it means to the supporters and understands what it means to lead the Panthers.
“Ironically, the club has not won a trophy since he left apart from the Elite Series but this isn’t about the past. Corey is the man to lead us forward and we share the same visions. He has so much experience, is a proven winner and is a great fit for this hockey club.”
The Panthers, who have lost each of their last three matches, return to the ice on Saturday [26 September] for a road game versus the Sheffield Steelers. On Sunday [27 September], they will host the Manchester Storm.
How will the Nottingham Panthers fare in the post-Gary Graham era? Join the discussion by tweeting @BritIceHockey.
