Dave Manson, Canadian ice hockey player and coach

David Michael Manson, born on January 27, 1967, is a highly respected Canadian figure in the world of professional ice hockey. Renowned for his formidable presence on the ice as a defenceman during a distinguished playing career in the National Hockey League (NHL), Manson has seamlessly transitioned into a pivotal coaching role, currently serving as an assistant coach with the iconic Edmonton Oilers. His journey exemplifies a deep commitment to the sport, from his days as a robust blueliner to his current position guiding the next generation of NHL talent.

A Distinguished Playing Career as an NHL Defenceman

David Manson's illustrious playing career in the National Hockey League spanned over a decade, establishing him as one of the league's most durable and reliable defencemen. Drafted 11th overall by the Calgary Flames in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft, Manson quickly became a cornerstone of their defense. He was instrumental in the Flames' memorable 1989 Stanley Cup championship victory, a testament to his impactful presence on the ice.

Throughout his extensive NHL tenure, Manson proudly wore the jerseys of several distinguished franchises, showcasing his adaptability and consistent performance across various team dynamics. His NHL playing career included stints with:

• Calgary Flames (1986–1994)
• Chicago Blackhawks (1994–2000)
• Phoenix Coyotes (2000–2001)
• Dallas Stars (2001–2002)
• Toronto Maple Leafs (2002–2003)

Known for his rugged, physical style of play, Manson was a formidable presence in his own end, excelling at shot-blocking and clearing the front of the net. His leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to team defense made him a highly valued asset on every team he played for, accumulating 1,103 regular-season games and 107 playoff appearances.

Transition to Coaching and Current Role

Transition to the Coaching Ranks

Following his distinguished playing career, David Manson transitioned seamlessly into coaching, leveraging his vast on-ice experience and deep understanding of the game. His coaching journey began with an assistant coaching role for the Calgary Flames, the team where he first made his mark as a player. He then gained valuable head coaching experience in the Western Hockey League (WHL), one of Canada's premier junior hockey leagues, with both the Prince Albert Raiders and the Moose Jaw Warriors.

Current Role with the Edmonton Oilers

Since 2021, David Manson has been a vital part of the coaching staff for the Edmonton Oilers, serving as an assistant coach. In this capacity, Manson primarily focuses on the defensive aspects of the team's play, utilizing his extensive knowledge as a former NHL defenceman to mentor and develop the Oilers' blueliners. His responsibilities often include:

• Defensive Systems: Working on optimizing the team's defensive strategies and schemes.
• Player Development: Providing individualized guidance and training to defencemen to enhance their skills, positioning, and overall game.
• Penalty Kill Specialist: Often tasked with overseeing and improving the team's penalty-killing unit, a critical component of defensive success in the NHL.

Manson's presence on the Oilers' bench adds a layer of invaluable experience, contributing to the team's strategic direction and fostering a culture of defensive responsibility. His insights are particularly beneficial for young defencemen aiming to make their mark in the demanding NHL environment.

Frequently Asked Questions About David Manson

When was David Manson born?

David Michael Manson was born on January 27, 1967.

Which NHL teams did David Manson play for during his career?

During his extensive NHL playing career, David Manson played for the Calgary Flames, Chicago Blackhawks, Phoenix Coyotes, Dallas Stars, and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Did David Manson win a Stanley Cup as a player?

Yes, David Manson won the Stanley Cup with the Calgary Flames in 1989.

What is David Manson's current role in the NHL?

David Manson currently serves as an assistant coach for the Edmonton Oilers in the National Hockey League (NHL).

What is David Manson's primary coaching focus with the Edmonton Oilers?

As an assistant coach with the Edmonton Oilers, David Manson primarily focuses on defensive systems, player development for defencemen, and often oversees the team's penalty-killing unit.