"We were a pretty fragile group when he got here. I would have to say he's exceeded all...

"We were a pretty fragile group when he got here. I would have to say he's exceeded all expectations."

Anonymous Player regarding Dan Bylsma
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Looks like the team is vouching for his return. Too soon?

almost 3 years ago FrankD 3 comments 0 recs |

Comments

It is absolutely not too early to be talking extension. The players are having fun and gelling on the ice more than they have in a long time, and Bylsma has embraced a system that fits a young explosive team like Pittsburgh. People keep saying “wait for the playoffs…a first round loss will force him out”. Really? A first-round loss to a higher-seeded team and Shero will just show Bylsma the door? I have a hard time believing that.

by shafnutz05 on Apr 1, 2009 8:56 AM EDT reply actions

There is no reason to rush signing him permanently since he will be here for the rest of the season, but I don’t think it’s too soon to be talking about it. Any other potential candidate would come in with uncertainty about whether he will click with the team, while we already know that Bylsma is both a good coach and a good fit for the team. As for concerns about how he would handle adversity, he came into a situation where things were going badly for the team, and he turned it around — no reason to think he can’t do it again. From everything I’ve seen, I want him to be the head coach next year.

by Cari on Apr 1, 2009 10:57 AM EDT reply actions

I’m all for bringing him on again next season. Not only did he turn the club around but I also find myself asking, “What are the other options, really?” I’d hate to see the Pens pass on Bylsma and send him back down to WB/S, or even worse get picked up by another team. The guy has to stay a Penguin and he will be head coach next season.

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by FrankD on Apr 1, 2009 12:12 PM EDT reply actions