“Steve had a solid career as a player and has gained valuable coaching experience with two teams, especially when it comes to working with young defensemen,” said Francis.

Smith, 51, served as assistant coach for the Edmonton Oilers for the past four seasons. The Glasgow, Scotland, native had also spent one season as an assistant coach for the Calgary Flames in 1997-98 before returning to the ice as a player for the Flames for three more seasons. Smith also gained experience as a scout with the Chicago Blackhawks prior to joining the Oilers coaching staff.

Selected by the Oilers in the sixth round of the 1981 NHL Draft, Smith played 804 career regular-season NHL games and recorded 375 points (72g, 303a) and 2,139 penalty minutes as a defenseman with Edmonton, Chicago and Calgary. He was a part of three Stanley Cup championship teams with the Oilers, and advanced to the Stanley Cup Final twice more with the Blackhawks, totaling 52 points (11g, 41a) in 134 career playoff games. Smith had three 50-point seasons as a blueliner, including a career-high 57 points (10g, 47a) for Chicago in 1992-93.

Prior to turning professional, Smith played for London of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) from 1980-1983, totaling 20 goals, 83 assists (103 points) and 481 penalty minutes.