Jim Montgomery's journey in the world of hockey began with his collegiate career at the University of Maine, where he played from 1989 to 1993. During his time there, Montgomery became a standout player, leading his team to the NCAA championship in 1993. His performance on the ice earned him recognition as an All-American and solidified his reputation as a skilled forward.
Following his successful college career, Montgomery transitioned to professional hockey. He signed with the St. Louis Blues as an undrafted free agent in 1993. Over the next few years, Montgomery played for several teams in the NHL, including the Montreal Canadiens, Philadelphia Flyers, San Jose Sharks, and Dallas Stars. Although his time in the NHL was marked by frequent transitions between teams, he consistently demonstrated his abilities as a reliable center.
In addition to his NHL career, Montgomery spent significant time in the American Hockey League (AHL) and International Hockey League (IHL). He played for teams such as the Hershey Bears, Philadelphia Phantoms, and Utah Grizzlies, where he often served as a veteran presence and leader on the ice. His experience in these leagues further honed his skills and understanding of the game.
After retiring as a player, Montgomery shifted his focus to coaching. He began his coaching career in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Dubuque Fighting Saints. Under his guidance, the team won two Clark Cup championships in 2011 and 2013. His success in the USHL caught the attention of collegiate programs, leading to his appointment as the head coach of the University of Denver's hockey team in 2013.
At Denver, Montgomery continued to excel, leading the Pioneers to an NCAA championship in 2017. His coaching style emphasized strong defensive play and disciplined team dynamics, which translated into success on the ice. Montgomery's achievements at the collegiate level eventually opened the door to the NHL once again, this time as a coach.
In 2018, Montgomery was named the head coach of the Dallas Stars. His tenure with the Stars was marked by a strong start, as he led the team to the playoffs in his first season. However, his time with the Stars was cut short in December 2019 due to personal reasons, leading to his dismissal from the team.
Despite this setback, Montgomery's coaching career continued. In 2020, he joined the St. Louis Blues as an assistant coach, where he contributed to the team's strategies and player development. His role with the Blues marked a new chapter in his hockey career, allowing him to remain involved in the sport at the highest level.
🏒