ATLANTA — John Anderson has been hired as coach of the Atlanta Thrashers after leading their top affiliate to the American Hockey League championship.

The hiring was announced hours before Friday night's NHL draft.

Anderson is the fourth coach in Thrashers history. He takes over from general manager Don Waddell, who served as interim coach after firing Bob Hartley early last season.

Anderson guided the Chicago Wolves to the AHL title and has won five championships in 13 seasons as a minor league coach.

More to come