Todd Richards is recognized for his extensive involvement in the world of hockey, both as a player and a coach. Born on October 20, 1966, in Crystal, Minnesota, Richards grew up in a region where hockey was more than just a sport; it was a way of life. His journey in hockey began in earnest during his college years at the University of Minnesota, where he played as a defenseman for the Golden Gophers from 1985 to 1989. During his time there, Richards honed his skills and developed a deep understanding of the game, which would serve him well in his future endeavors.
After college, Richards transitioned to professional hockey. He was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft, but he never played a game for the team. Instead, his professional playing career took off in the American Hockey League (AHL) and the International Hockey League (IHL). Richards spent the majority of his playing career with the Springfield Indians, where he was part of the team that won the Calder Cup in 1991. His time in the AHL and IHL allowed him to develop a comprehensive understanding of the game from a player's perspective, which later influenced his coaching style.
Richards' playing career also included a stint in the NHL with the Hartford Whalers during the 1990-1991 season, where he played in eight games. Although his time in the NHL was brief, it provided him with valuable experience at the highest level of the sport. After retiring as a player in 2002, Richards shifted his focus to coaching, where he would spend the next phase of his hockey career.
His coaching career began in the AHL, where he served as an assistant coach for the Milwaukee Admirals. Richards quickly demonstrated his ability to lead and strategize, contributing to the Admirals' Calder Cup victory in 2004. His success in the AHL paved the way for his transition to the NHL, where he joined the San Jose Sharks as an assistant coach in 2008.
In 2009, Richards was appointed as the head coach of the Minnesota Wild, marking the beginning of his head coaching career in the NHL. During his tenure with the Wild, Richards worked to develop the team's young talent and implement a competitive playing style. Although his time with the Wild ended in 2011, it provided him with valuable experience and insights into managing an NHL team.
Richards' next opportunity came with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he initially joined as an assistant coach in 2011. He was promoted to head coach in 2012, a position he held until 2015. Under his leadership, the Blue Jackets made significant strides, including a franchise-record 43 wins in the 2013-2014 season and a playoff appearance. Richards' ability to guide the team through challenging periods and foster a competitive environment was evident during his tenure.
Following his time with the Blue Jackets, Richards continued his coaching career as an assistant coach with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Joining the Lightning in 2016, he became part of a coaching staff that led the team to multiple playoff appearances and a Stanley Cup victory in 2020. His role with the Lightning allowed him to contribute to the team's success and further solidify his reputation as a knowledgeable and effective coach.
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