Some of the Avalanche's best young prospects play at Boston University, and on Monday the team hired a Terriers coach as the top man for its American Hockey League affiliate.

David Quinn, 42, was named the head coach of the Lake Erie Monsters, replacing Joe Sacco, who is now the Avs' coach.

As an assistant under longtime BU coach Jack Parker, Quinn has coached Avs prospects such as Kevin Shattenkirk, Brandon Yip and Colby Cohen.

"David is a proven winner who has successfully coached young players throughout their careers," Avs general manager Greg Sherman said in a team statement. "He played a significant role in the success of Boston University's program, and has the necessary experience to lead our young prospects in Cleveland."

Quinn, who also played at BU, was the 13th overall selection in the 1984 NHL draft by Minnesota, but had to retire from playing before his senior season because of a rare blood disorder. He later attempted a comeback in the minor leagues, but he retired for good after two years.

Hits and misses

NHL reporter Adrian Dater analyzes some recent NHL players who jumped straight from being drafted as juniors or Europeans into the NHL, and how they fared:

GREAT ONES

Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh, 2005: Has been everything advertised, and now is a Stanley Cup champion.

Jordan Staal, Pittsburgh, 2006: Picked second, Staal has been solid.

Eric Staal, Carolina, 2003: Second pick and older brother of Jordan, struggled first year but has been a star since.

Rick Nash, Columbus, 2002: First pick has been a star from Day One.

NOT-SO-GREAT ONES

Gilbert Brule, Columbus, 2005: Sixth pick has bounced around NHL and minors.

Patrik Stefan, Atlanta, 1999: First pick was one of the biggest busts in draft history.

Tim Connolly, New York Islanders, 1999: Much more was expected of the fifth pick.