The Anaheim Ducks have hired Greg Cronin to be their next head coach, the team announced Monday.

Cronin, who was the head coach for the Colorado Avalanche's AHL affiliate, will be an NHL head coach for the first time in his career. The 60-year-old Cronin had spent five years with the Colorado Eagles and guided the team to the playoffs four times. Previously, Cronin was also the head coach of the New York Islanders' AHL affiliate in Bridgeport.

He replaces Dallas Eakins, who was dismissed after four seasons.