Oilers Could Lose Glen Gulutzan To Stars Amid Coaching Search
The Edmonton Oilers' deep playoff run could come at a cost behind the bench. Following the Dallas Stars' decision to fire head coach Peter DeBoer, speculation is growing that Edmonton assistant Glen Gulutzan could emerge as a serious candidate for the vacancy.
Gulutzan, who previously served as the Stars' head coach from 2011 to 2013, has quietly rebuilt his stock as a potential head coach. Gulutzan's work with superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl hasn't gone unnoticed, and while his previous runs as a head coach didn't go quite as well as he might have hoped, he's had time to learn and adjust, and is likely prepared to give it another go.
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'Gully's been the coach I've worked with the longest throughout my time in the NHL,' McDavid told The Athletic during last year's Stanley Cup Final. 'He's great at what he does. He's a great coach and we're lucky to have him here.'
It would be a loss for the Oilers if the Stars decided he is their guy.
According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, Gulutzan is a name to watch in Dallas. On a recent 32 Thoughts podcast, Friedman said, 'I wouldn't be surprised if he is part of this process.' He added that Stars GM Jim Nill is keeping his options open and is expected to consider both familiar and unexpected names, including Gulutzan, who was once let go by Nill in Dallas more than a decade ago.
Stephen Whyno of the Associated Press also suggested Gulutzan as a logical fit, writing, 'Wonder if Glen Gulutzan gets a look in Dallas. Coached the Stars from 2011-13 and had a stint with the Flames. Now a longtime Oilers assistant who has been a big part of Edmonton's success.'
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While Gulutzan's current commitment to the Oilers may have hindered his ability to interview for jobs earlier this off-season, the timing could now align. With only a few vacancies left — and Dallas being one of the most attractive given their status as a Stanley Cup contender — his name could gain traction quickly.
The Edmonton Oilers logo on the jersey of goaltender Stuart Skinner. (Jerome Miron-Imagn Images)
'He deserves another chance,' longtime NHL insider John Shannon noted, expressing surprise that Gulutzan hasn't drawn more attention during this cycle.
The Oilers are aware of what they have in Gulutzan. Losing him would be a significant blow to their coaching staff, particularly to a power-play unit that has been the league's gold standard. Perhaps it's not fair to give him all the credit, seeing as that power play is loaded with elite talent that should make any coach look good. Still, there is a skill involved in managing that kind of talent and working to create the best results.
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