Around the NHL: Eakins out in Edmonton, shootout record and more

The Edmonton Oilers decided earlier this week they needed a change. Craig MacTavish made the decision to let head coach Dallas Eakins go this week. Eakins was hired at the start of last season and his tenure has ended after just 112 games.

In those 112  games, Eakins and the Oilers compiled a 36-62-14 record. They finished last in the pacific division last season and are currently holding down the same position this year.

Eakins got his coaching start in Toronto as an assistant coach with the Maple Leafs in 2006. From there, he would take over the Toronto Marlies, Toronto's AHL affiliate, in 2009. Edmonton hired him on June 10, 2013 to be the head coach of the Oilers. He was fired on December 15th.

Florida's record night

The Washington Capitals love being apart of shootout history. Tuesday night Washington and Florida played to a 1-1 draw at the end of overtime. What followed was incredible.

It took 20 rounds, 40 shooters and 11 total goals before the Panthers prevailed on Nick Bjugstad's goal to win 2-1.  Roberto Luongo stopped 15 of 20 shooters for the win.

The 20 rounds is now the NHL record. The previous record was held by the Rangers and Capitals at 15 rounds. Fans will remember the winning goal of that game when Marek Malik went between his legs to beat Olaf Kolzig.

Mr. Hockey Improving

Hockey legend and Hall of Famer Gordie Howe is reportedly doing better. We mentioned previously that the longtime great had a massive stroke back in October. After numerous setbacks, it appears MR. Hockey may finally be on the road to recovery.

Gordie's son, former Flyer Mark Howe, told the media that Gordie is moving around under his own power. He was quoted as saying it's more a shuffle then a walk. Progress is progress and we all hope Gordie continues to improve.

League Leaders through 12/18/14

Goals – Seguin (23)

Assist – Giroux (27)

Points – Seguin, Malkin, Voracek (38)

Plus/Minus – Forsberg (23)

Wins – Rinne (20)

Bill Minchin is a contributing writer for Flyerdelphia. Follow Bill on Twitter @wtfd103074