The recent flurry of head coaching changes across the National Hockey League appears to be winding down. The Dallas Stars confirmed on Tuesday that they have hired Glen Gulutzan to take over as head coach, succeeding Peter DeBoer.
This marks Gulutzan`s return to a head coaching role after serving as an assistant coach for the Edmonton Oilers over the past six seasons; his last head job was in 2018. Dallas General Manager Jim Nill issued a statement highlighting Gulutzan`s significant development since his previous time with the Stars organization from 2011 to 2013.
Nill expressed strong confidence in the hire, stating that Gulutzan has become one of the most respected coaches in the league through tireless work since his initial Dallas stint. He praised Gulutzan`s extensive experience both as a head coach and assistant, emphasizing his ability to innovate, adapt to the modern game, build rapport with players, and effectively maximize their skills to benefit the team. Nill concluded by stating that he has “full confidence that he is the right person to elevate our team to the next level.”
Gulutzan`s first opportunity as an NHL head coach came with the Stars in 2011. His tenure saw the team achieve a 64-57-9 record over two seasons but did not result in any playoff appearances. He later coached the Calgary Flames from 2016 to 2018, where his record was 82-68-14. He guided the Flames to the playoffs in 2017, but they were swept by the Anaheim Ducks in the opening round.
Around the rest of the league, other notable coaching appointments have recently taken place. The Pittsburgh Penguins brought in former New York Rangers assistant Dan Muse, the Seattle Kraken hired former New York Islanders coach Lane Lambert, the Vancouver Canucks promoted assistant Adam Foote, and Rick Tocchet is back with the Philadelphia Flyers.
With the Dallas Stars filling their vacancy by hiring Gulutzan, it appears all head coaching positions around the NHL for the upcoming season have now been finalized.
| 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 |
Elton Marrow 
Torin Vale