Dallas Stars Rehire Former Coach Glen Gulutzan

Gulutzan returns to lead the Stars after gaining 12 years of additional NHL coaching experience

Apr. 17, 2026 at 12:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting in shades of green, black, and white, depicting a hockey game or match through an abstract, multi-angled perspective.A cubist interpretation of a Dallas Stars hockey game captures the dynamic energy and strategic complexity of the sport.Dallas Today

The Dallas Stars have rehired Glen Gulutzan as their head coach, bringing him back to the team after he was let go following his first two seasons as an NHL head coach over a decade ago. Gulutzan has spent the last 12 years gaining valuable experience in the league, and the Stars' general manager believes he is now ready to lead the team.

Why it matters

Gulutzan's return to the Stars represents a second chance for the coach, who was previously dismissed from the role early in his NHL head coaching career. His ability to gain extensive experience over the past 12 years and earn another opportunity with the same organization shows the value of perseverance and continuous learning in professional sports.

The details

Gulutzan was first hired as the Stars' head coach in 2011, but was let go after just two seasons. In the 12 years since, he has gained experience as an assistant coach with other NHL teams as well as a head coach in the minor leagues. The Stars' general manager, who was not with the team when Gulutzan was first hired, believes he is now ready to lead the team after his previous experience and development.

  • Gulutzan was first hired as the Stars' head coach in 2011.
  • Gulutzan was let go by the Stars after the 2012-13 season.
  • Gulutzan was rehired as the Stars' head coach in the summer of 2026.

The players

Glen Gulutzan

The new head coach of the Dallas Stars, who previously served in that role with the team from 2011-2013 before being let go. Gulutzan has spent the last 12 years gaining additional NHL coaching experience.

Dallas Stars

The NHL hockey team based in Dallas, Texas that has rehired Glen Gulutzan as their head coach after previously employing him in that role over a decade ago.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Gulutzan's return to the Dallas Stars represents a redemption story, as the coach has been able to gain valuable NHL experience over the past 12 years and earn another opportunity to lead the team. His perseverance and continuous development have paid off, and the Stars are hoping his previous missteps and new knowledge will translate to success this time around.