NHL Rumors: Elliotte Friedman links former Penguins coach to Seattle Kraken head coaching role

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified May 27, 2024 16:29 GMT

Dan Bylsma, former head coach of Pittsburgh Penguins, is reportedly one of the top contenders to lead Seattle Kraken, as per Elliotte Friedman on 32 Thoughts Podcast.

Friedman indicated that Bylsma's hiring appears likely but official confirmation is pending. Bylsma led the Penguins to a Stanley Cup win in 2009.

"So Seattle, I think it's going to be Bylsma. I don't know that. I would just be surprised at this point if it isn't him, based on everything I'm hearing," Friedman said.

"But again, nothing is done until it's done. But in coaching circles, that's where everyone is leaning," Friedman added.

Bylsma's time in Pittsburgh spanned six years. He, in fact, secured his status as one of the most successful coaches in franchise history. However, his journey in NHL didn't end there. Following his departure from Penguins in 2014, Bylsma became the head coach of the Buffalo Sabres for two seasons before transitioning to assistant coaching position with the Detroit Red Wings.

The Seattle Kraken enlisted Bylsma upon their franchise launch, tasking him with coaching their AHL affiliate, Coachella Valley Firebirds. His time with the Firebirds has likely provided valuable experience and insight into developing players within the Kraken organization, setting the stage for a potential promotion to the NHL level.

2024 IIHF World Championship: Penguins Players' Performances and Medal Wins

The 2024 IIHF World Championship recently concluded in Prague and Ostrava, Czechia. Among the Penguins players, Erik Karlsson and Marcus Pettersson clinched bronze with Team Sweden.

It was Karlsson's second bronze in his IIHF career, serving as captain this time, tallying six goals and 11 points in 10 games. Pettersson, in his third appearance, secured his first medal with three goals and five points.

Michael Bunting represented Team Canada, but unfortunately lost to Sweden in the bronze medal game. Despite the loss, Bunting, hailing from Scarborough, Ontario, notched one goal and three assists over 10 games, marking his second appearance after winning gold in 2021.

Sweden’s triumph came at the expense of Finland's Valtteri Puustinen and Jesse Puljujarvi, as they were ousted in the quarterfinals. Puustinen, with a goal and an assist, showcased promise despite Finland’s early exit. Puljujarvi, bouncing back from hip surgery, contributed three goals in eight games.

Alex Nedeljkovic debuted for Team USA in net, securing two wins including a shutout against France. Despite his efforts, the US was halted in the quarterfinals by Czechia, who ultimately claimed gold on their home turf.

With this victory, Czechia secured gold on home ice for the first time since their 1985 win.