Kraken Make Bold Move: Bylsma Fired After Just One Season – What This Means for the Team’s Future

The Seattle Kraken have made a big change by letting go of coach Dan Bylsma after just one season. The decision comes as the team finished with a record of 35-41-6, landing them 20 points away from a playoff spot. This marks their second consecutive year missing the playoffs.

General manager Ron Francis shared his gratitude for Bylsma’s efforts, highlighting his dedication to the team both in the NHL and AHL over the past four years. However, he felt it was necessary to head in a new direction as the team looks to improve for the future.

This firing means the Kraken are now looking for their third head coach in as many years, having previously let go of Dave Hakstol last offseason. Bylsma is known for his past success, particularly with the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he won the Stanley Cup in his first year in 2009 and was awarded the Jack Adams Award as the best coach in 2011. Before coaching the Kraken, he led the AHL’s Coachella Valley Firebirds for two seasons.

The Kraken aren’t alone in their search for a new coach. The NHL offseason has seen several teams making similar moves. Recently, the Vancouver Canucks opted not to pick up the option on coach Rick Tocchet but offered him a better deal to stay. The New York Rangers also fired Peter Laviolette, and the Anaheim Ducks parted ways with Greg Cronin.

The coaching changes highlight a trend in the league where teams are actively seeking fresh leadership to boost performance. As of now, fans are left wondering who the Kraken will choose next and what this means for their hopes of a successful season ahead. The pressure is on for the organization to make a choice that will reignite their path to the playoffs.

For more insights on coaching changes in the NHL, you can check out detailed reports on ESPN.



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