The Seattle Kraken have made a significant move in their coaching staff, appointing Dan Bylsma as the second head coach in franchise history. This decision comes after the team parted ways with Dave Hakstol, who led the Kraken for their first three seasons in the NHL.
Bylsma, 53, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having most recently served as the head coach of the Kraken’s AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, for the past two seasons. Under his leadership, the Firebirds have enjoyed considerable success, reaching the Calder Cup Finals in their inaugural season and advancing to the Western Conference Finals in the current season.
The timing of Bylsma’s appointment is noteworthy, coming just over a month after Hakstol’s dismissal[3]. Despite leading the Kraken to within a game of the Western Conference finals and being a Jack Adams Award finalist in the 2022-23 season, Hakstol was let go after the team fell short of playoff contention this year, finishing 17 points out of the final wild-card spot.
Kraken General Manager Ron Francis expressed confidence in Bylsma’s abilities, citing his track record of success at various levels of hockey. Bylsma’s resume includes winning the Stanley Cup with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009 and earning the Jack Adams Award as the NHL’s top coach in 2011. His experience developing young and veteran talent was a critical factor in the Kraken’s decision.
Bylsma’s NHL coaching career began with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2009, where he led the team to six consecutive playoff appearances. After a brief stint with the Buffalo Sabres from 2015 to 2017, he served as an assistant coach for the Detroit Red Wings before joining the Kraken organization.
In his role with the Firebirds, Bylsma has overseen the development of several promising players, including Max McCormick, Brogan Rafferty, Tye Kartye, and Ryker Evans, all of whom have earned league accolades under his guidance. This experience with the Kraken’s prospects and familiarity with the organization’s systems and personnel likely played a significant role in his promotion.
Bylsma expressed excitement about the opportunity, acknowledging his familiarity with many of the players and staff in the Kraken organization. He emphasized the potential to build something special with the team, suggesting a focus on long-term success and development.
The Kraken’s decision to hire Bylsma comes amidst a busy offseason for NHL coaching changes, with several teams making new appointments. As the Kraken prepare for their fourth NHL season, they will look to Bylsma to guide them back to the playoffs and build on the promise shown in their second year.
