The Seattle Kraken are set to give Dan Bylsma a promotion.
The coach of Seattle’s AHL affiliate in Coachella Valley is poised to be hired as head coach of the Kraken.
Seattle cut ties with coach Dave Hakstol after missing the playoffs this year.
The team is scheduled to make a “special announcement” Tuesday with owner Samantha Holloway and general manager Ron Francis in attendance.
Bylsma has coached the AHL Firebirds to the Western Conference Final in his second season with the club. The Firebirds’ series against the Milwaukee Admirals starts later this week.
The Kraken job will mark Bylsma’s third go-around as an NHL head coach.
Bylsma won a Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009 after taking over as head coach with 25 games to go. He remained with the Penguins through 2014, making the playoffs each year and winning the Jack Adams Award as coach of the year in 2011.
Bylsma then coached the Buffalo Sabres for two seasons from 2016-18, missing the playoffs both years.
The Seattle Kraken have made a big splash in the hockey world by announcing the hiring of Dan Bylsma as their new head coach. Bylsma, a former NHL player and coach, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the expansion team.
Bylsma is no stranger to success in the NHL. He previously served as head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, leading them to a Stanley Cup championship in 2009. He also spent time coaching the Buffalo Sabres and most recently served as an assistant coach with the Detroit Red Wings.
With Bylsma at the helm, the Kraken are hoping to build a winning culture and establish themselves as a competitive team in the league. Bylsma’s track record of success and his ability to develop young talent make him a perfect fit for the young franchise.
One of Bylsma’s strengths as a coach is his ability to adapt to different playing styles and make adjustments on the fly. This flexibility will be crucial for the Kraken as they navigate their inaugural season and face off against established teams with varying strategies.
In addition to his coaching acumen, Bylsma is known for his strong leadership skills and ability to motivate players. His presence behind the bench will undoubtedly inspire the Kraken players to give their all and compete at a high level every night.
Overall, the hiring of Dan Bylsma as head coach is a promising sign for the Seattle Kraken. With his experience, leadership, and winning pedigree, Bylsma has the potential to lead the team to success in their inaugural season and beyond. Fans can look forward to an exciting new era of hockey in Seattle under Bylsma’s guidance.