According to a source, the Seattle Kraken are set to announce Dan Bylsma as their new coach, making him the first time he’ll lead an NHL team since 2017. This information comes from someone familiar with the decision who spoke to The Associated Press anonymously. The team hasn’t made an official announcement yet, but they’ve scheduled a news conference for tomorrow.
Bylsma has been coaching the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the American Hockey League for the past two seasons, which is the top affiliate of the Kraken. He’s currently leading them into the Calder Cup semifinals. During his time there, he’s worked closely with some of Seattle’s top prospects, who are expected to join the team in the future.
Bylsma is taking over from Dave Hakstol, who was released after his third season with the Kraken. Although the team made the playoffs in its second year, they struggled offensively under Hakstol’s leadership, leading to his departure.
Before coaching in Coachella Valley, Bylsma spent time as a head coach in the NHL with Pittsburgh and Buffalo. He led the Penguins to the Stanley Cup in the 2008-2009 season.
Despite consistent playoff appearances during his tenure with Pittsburgh, they only reached the conference final once. Bylsma was later let go by Buffalo after two seasons with the team, during which they finished near the bottom of their division both times.
