Chiarelli has five in mind for coach

VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- Peter Chiarelli, Boston's general manager designee, said last night that he has finished interviewing candidates for the Bruins' head coaching position and has culled his list to five -- one of whom he will select no later than Saturday.

Chiarelli, who spent most of yesterday's NHL draft at the Ottawa Senators table, said current coach Mike Sullivan remains on the short list, which also includes former head coaches Pat Quinn (Toronto) and Dave Lewis (Detroit). Kevin Dineen, head coach of Portland of the American Hockey League, is another likely candidate, possibly along with Mike Johnston, recently dismissed as an assistant in Vancouver.

``I've finished the process," said Chiarelli, during a break in the seven-round draft at GM Place. ``Now it's just a matter of making the decision, and all that will be done by July 1."

If he decides to retain Sullivan, said Chiarelli, he must notify NHL headquarters in New York, where a legal representative then will apprise the Boston front office of the decision. If Chiarelli chooses a different candidate, the same procedure must be followed, first with a call to New York prior to the Bruins being notified. However, it then would be up to assistant GM Jeff Gorton or club president Harry Sinden to negotiate a contract with the designated choice.

Meanwhile, Chiarelli remains an Ottawa front office employee until July 15, as previously agreed upon by the Senators and Bruins. However, he said there is a possibility, should his successor be named prior to his release date, that he could be free to leave the Senators earlier than expected.

``I'd say it's a possibility," said Chiarelli. ``Before this weekend, I would have said it wasn't a chance, but now . . . maybe."

KEVIN PAUL DUPONT