The wave of NHL coaching changes appears to have concluded. The Dallas Stars announced on Tuesday that they have hired Glen Gulutzan to take over as head coach, replacing Peter DeBoer.
This marks Gulutzan`s return to a head coaching role after his last stint in 2018. He has spent the past six seasons serving as an assistant coach for the Edmonton Oilers. Dallas general manager Jim Nill released a statement indicating that Gulutzan has significantly developed since his initial time with the Stars organization from 2011 to 2013.
In his statement, Nill said: “We are thrilled to name Glen as the head coach of the Dallas Stars. Since his previous time in Dallas, Glen has worked tirelessly to establish himself as one of the most respected coaches in the NHL. His extensive NHL experience, both as a head coach and assistant coach, speaks to his ability to innovate and adapt to the modern game, as well as build relationships with his players. Glen has worked with some of the best players in the world and continually found ways to maximize their skill sets to contribute to team success. We have full confidence that he is the right person to elevate our team to the next level.”
Dallas initially gave Gulutzan his first opportunity as a head coach in 2011, but that period was not entirely successful. He guided the team to a 64-57-9 record without making the playoffs. Gulutzan also coached the Calgary Flames from 2016 to 2018, compiling an 82-68-14 record there. He did lead the Flames to the 2017 playoffs, but they were swept in the first round by the Anaheim Ducks.
Elsewhere on the coaching circuit, the Pittsburgh Penguins hired former New York Rangers assistant Dan Muse. The Seattle Kraken brought in former New York Islanders coach Lane Lambert, the Vancouver Canucks promoted assistant Adam Foote, and Rick Tocchet returned to the Philadelphia Flyers as their new bench boss.
With Glen Gulutzan`s hiring finalized, it appears all head coaching positions across the NHL have now been filled.
| Team | Former Coach | New Coach |
|---|---|---|
| Anaheim Ducks | Greg Cronin | Joel Quenneville |
| Boston Bruins | Joe Sacco (interim) | Marco Sturm |
| Chicago Blackhawks | Anders Sorensen (interim) | Jeff Blashill |
| Dallas Stars | Peter DeBoer | Glen Gulutzan |
| New York Rangers | Peter Laviolette | Mike Sullivan |
| Philadelphia Flyers | Brad Shaw (interim) | Rick Tocchet |
| Pittsburgh Penguins | Mike Sullivan | Dan Muse |
| Seattle Kraken | Dan Bylsma | Lane Lambert |
| Vancouver Canucks | Rick Tocchet | Adam Foote |
