BOSTON -- After numerous requests for interviews, former Boston Bruins head coach Claude Julien released a statement via email to the local media on Thursday.
Julien said he hoped his words would be sufficient after being fired Tuesday after nearly 10 seasons with the Bruins and a Stanley Cup championship.
"I would like first and foremost to thank the Bruins organization for allowing my family and I the privilege of spending 10 unforgettable years in Boston. We were proud to call this great city home for so long and will dearly miss it," Julien wrote.
"To the players, past and present, medical and equipment staff, doctors and communications staff, all of whom worked hard for the success of our club with a team-first mentality, I cannot thank you enough for your commitment through it all.
"From the game day security crew to the volunteers that I was fortunate enough to meet throughout the years, I thank you as well.
"I certainly cannot sign off without thanking the people that made this time here so rewarding -- the Boston Bruins fans. Your devotion, unmistakable passion, energy and support is what makes Boston the best sports city in the entire world!
"In leaving this organization, what I'm most happy about and most proud of is being part of the team that brought the Stanley Cup back to Boston for the first time in 39 years. Sharing that journey and the Stanley Cup celebrations with our players, families, staff and our fans produced so many incredible memories that I will never forget. To all that were part of it and helped along the way, I want to express a heartfelt 'thank you.'"
Julien, 56, has one year and $3 million remaining on his contract, but it's unlikely he'll be out of work long. The expansion Vegas Golden Knights are searching for their first coach, and Julien should be in the mix for that position. The New York Islanders, who recently fired coach Jack Capuano and currently have interim coach Doug Weight in place, will be looking for a new bench boss during the offseason. Julien's services will be in demand from other organizations looking to make a coaching change too.