Regina-based NHL defenceman Jamie Heward is contemplating ending his playing career, and launching a coaching career. Heward, who is coming off an injury-shortened 18th season in professional hockey, was candid about his career plans on tonight's taping of the SportZone program on Access 7. The program will air Wednesday night at 6 p.m. and Thursday at 3 p.m.
In the interview, Heward revealed he plans to meet with Regina Pats G.M. Brent Parker to talk about the team's vacant coaching positions. If those talks prove fruitful, the most likely scenario would have Heward taking on the role of assistant coach under Curtis Hunt, who would return to the Pats after a one-year term with the Ottawa Senators organization. Hunt is seen as the front-runner to replace Dale Derkatch, who was fired after one season at the helm. Assistant Coach Terry Perkins was also let go, in the wake of a disappointing season for the Pats.
Heward hasn't completely resigned himself to ending his playing career, but admits any discussions about the coaching opportunity with the Pats will factor into his decision-making process. The 38-year old Regina native started the 2008/09 NHL season with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He was sidelined with a severe concussion on January 1st, after an on-ice collision with Washington Capitals star Alexander Ovechkin. While recovering from the concussion, his rights were dealt to the Toronto Maple Leafs at the NHL trade deadline in March.
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