Jim Schoenfeld
Jim Schoenfeld (born September 4, 1952 in Galt, Ontario) is a retired professional ice hockey player who has also coached hockey at the highest levels. After a junior career with the London Knights, Hamilton Red Wings and Niagara Falls Flyers, he is drafted by the Buffalo Sabres and would play eleven seasons with that team, including spending time as the team’s captain.1
New Jersey Devils coach Jim Schoenfeld was famously ejected from Game 3 of the NHL Eastern Conference final against the Boston Bruins in 1988. Schoenfeld’s classic response to referee Don Koharski?2
During his days playing in Buffalo, Jim was a tireless spokesman and volunteer for a variety of charitable causes. Schoenfeld maintained a residence and business connection in the Buffalo area even after his relationship with the Sabres ended.3
The team made it all the way to the conference finals, but lost to the Boston Bruins in seven games. In that series, head coach Jim Schoenfeld verbally abused referee Don Koharski, screaming obscenties and screaming, “Have another doughnut, you fat pig!” The incident resulted in a suspension for Schoenfeld, which the franchise appealed to the New Jersey Superior Court.4
GOOD SCHO: Having been a key part of the Rangers’ decision-making process in signing Scott Gomez and Chris Drury, former Devils coach Jim Schoenfeld is expected to be named the Rangers’ assistant GM in the next few days. Schoenfeld will remain the GM of the Rangers’ AHL affiliate in Hartford, but will relinquish his duties as the farm team’s head coach.5