Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy, who played at BU under David Quinn for two seasons, said that he couldn't be happier that Quinn is now the head coach of the Rangers. (The Athletic)
McAvoy praised Quinn for "the way that he cares" and said that Quinn was around to help him with extra video, one on one meetings and how his game was going.(The Athletic)
He added that Quinn "did so much" for me." (The Athletic)
The New York Times noted that when McAvoy turned pro and played his first game in the AHL, Quinn was at the game and ran into McAvoy's mother. (NY Times)
McAvoy's mother "hugged the coach and sobbed into his chest for a minute or more, unable to speak. Finally, she told Quinn, "Thank you for everything you've done for us." (NY Times)
During McAvoy's run in the playoffs with Boston in 2017 he and Quinn exchanged around 30 text messages in a two-week period. (Mass Live)
Prior to leaving BU to start his pro career in the Bruins organization, McAvoy said "It was really emotional, saying goodbye to him. We built such a great relationship while I was there. I can't thank him enough for everything. He believes in me. He sent me off with some real good words of encouragement. I know that we'll still have that relationship forever.″ (Providence Journal)
Quinn has been praised by former BU players such as Jack Eichel and Brady Tkachuk as well as many coaches around the league.
McAvoy is from Long Island and grew up as a big fan of Brian Leetch.
