Robinson returns to lead Devils

NEWARK, N.J. – Larry Robinson has already experienced the highs and lows as coach of the New Jersey Devils. That made him an easy, short-notice choice to replace the ailing Pat Burns.

Robinson, who led the New Jersey Devils to a Stanley Cup title in 2000 but was fired less than two years later, returned Thursday as coach of the team.

Robinson replaces Burns, who has been diagnosed with cancer for the second time in a little more than a year.

Burns, a three-time National Hockey League coach of the year, had surgery earlier this month and was expected to undergo chemotherapy.

Under Burns, the Devils reached the Stanley Cup finals in 2003, losing in seven games to Anaheim. The following year, they were eliminated in the conference quarterfinals in five games by Philadelphia.