Anders Sorensen Named Interim Coach of Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks have fired head coach Luke Richardson and appointed Anders Sorensen as the interim head coach, aiming to boost the team's performance and support rookie star Connor Bedard, who has struggled early in the season with only 5 goals and 19 points in 26 games. Sorensen, the first Swedish head coach in NHL history, previously led the Rockford IceHogs and has emphasized the importance of increasing team intensity and enjoyment in competition. Blackhawks general manager Kyle Davidson cited underperformance as a key reason for the coaching change, noting that the team is currently last in the NHL standings. Sorensen's immediate focus will be on revitalizing Bedard's confidence and improving his shot output, while also implementing tactical adjustments to encourage a more aggressive style of play. The team hopes for a quick turnaround, with their next game against the Winnipeg Jets providing an opportunity to assess the impact of this coaching change. The Blackhawks plan to conduct a formal search for a permanent head coach at the end of the season, depending on Sorensen's performance.