Dan Bylsma Relieved of Duties as Head Coach of Penguins

(Source: Facebook/Penguins)

The news Penguins fans have been waiting for since the firing of Ray Shero is finally in…..Dan Bylsma has been let go as Penguins coach.

The team had been waiting for the new general manager to make the decision, and at the team’s Friday press conference, their new GM Jim Rutherford, broke the news.

Bylsma had coached the Penguins for five-plus seasons, compiling a record of 252-117-32 and leading the team to the Stanley Cup in 2009.

“Dan is a good man and a good coach, but I thought we needed a change in direction moving forward,” Rutherford said. “I have no doubt that he will go on to be a head coach in the National Hockey League and have success. The search for our new head coach will begin immediately.”

“We want to thank Dan for everything he has done for the Penguins organization,” co-owners Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle said in a joint statement. “He’ll always be remembered as a big part of Pittsburgh sports history for his role in our Stanley Cup championship in 2009. We wish all the best to him and his family.”

The rest of the coaching staff, including Tony Granato, Todd Reirden, Jacques Martin, Mike Bales, and video coordinator Andy Saucier will be evaluated by Rutherford and the future head coach.