Ron Francis hires another former NHLer to join Kraken coaching staff

Seattle Kraken GM Ron Francis announced yesterday the hiring of veteran coach and former NHL player Dave Lowry.

The 57 year old Lowry served as assistant coach and then interim head coach of the Winnipeg Jets last season.

"Dave brings experience to our coaching staff. He had a long and successful NHL playing career and has significant coaching experience at the NHL and junior ranks. Dave will be a valuable addition to Dave Hakstol’s staff."

- Ron Francis

Lowry has had stops around the NHL as an assistant coach with the Jets, Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames. He was a head coach in the WHL for 10 seasons, winning WHL Coach of the Year twice during his time with the Victoria Royals. As a player, he played more than 1,000 NHL games split between the Vancouver Canucks, St. Louis Blues, Florida Panthers, San Jose Sharks and Calgary Flames. He was never a big point producer during his playing days, but he was always a reliable bottom six forward capable of killing penalties and playing a hard, forechecking style of hockey. He even served as the Calgary Flames' captain late in his career and helped mentor a young Jarome Iginla. 

As a coach, Lowry has a reputation as being good with younger players and helping them reach their potential. Seeing as how the Kraken have promising young prospects like Matty Beniers and Shane Wright in their system, Lowry seems like a perfect fit.