Mon Jun 9 21:04:48 2008

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Report: Maple Leafs to name Wilson coach

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Toronto, ON (Sports Network) - The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly expected to name Ron Wilson the club's new head coach on Tuesday.

According to TSN of Canada, Leafs interim general manager Cliff Fletcher and Wilson verbally agreed to terms on a four-year contract over the weekend.

Wilson was fired by the Sharks after the club was eliminated in the Western Conference semifinals by the Dallas Stars. After four-plus seasons at the helm, the 53-year-old compiled the most wins (206) and playoff games coached (52) in franchise history and ranked second in regular-season games coached.

The Providence College product holds a 518-446-127 mark over 1,091 games with Anaheim, Washington and San Jose.

Fletcher was brought in on an interim basis after John Ferguson was fired during last season, and the franchise is still searching for his replacement. There is speculation that former Canucks and Ducks GM Brian Burke could be in the running for the position.

The head coaching slot has been vacant since Paul Maurice was fired following two campaigns during which the Leafs failed to make the playoffs.