Canucks Announce New Assistant Coaches Under Adam Foote
The Vancouver Canucks officially announced on Thursday morning that Kevin Dean will join newly appointed head coach Adam Foote’s staff as an assistant coach. In addition to Dean, the team has also added Brett McLean and Scott Young as assistant coaches for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, assistant coach Yogi Svejkovsky, defensive development coach Sergei Gonchar, and video coach Dylan Crawford will not be returning.
Svejkovsky has taken a new role with the Philadelphia Flyers, where he’ll continue to work under Rick Tocchet, who left the Canucks in April after declining to extend his head coaching position. Adam Foote, who had been serving as an assistant, was promoted to head coach three weeks later.
Henrik and Daniel Sedin will continue in their roles as player development coaches, while Jason Krog remains in charge of skills and skating, and Marko Torenius retains his position as goaltending coach. Ian Beckenstein has been appointed as the assistant video coach, suggesting that an additional hire might be made to complete the video coaching team.
“We conducted an extensive search to ensure we brought in the right people for our team,” said Canucks General Manager Patrik Allvin in a press release. “Once Adam was appointed, our focus turned to assembling a group of assistant coaches who are strong communicators, effective teachers, and quality individuals. Adam has done an excellent job putting together a balanced and experienced coaching staff with expertise in key areas. I’m looking forward to supporting them as they gear up for the season.”
Kevin Dean, 56, most recently served three seasons as an assistant coach with the Chicago Blackhawks and brings nearly two decades of coaching experience. He is expected to take over Foote’s previous responsibilities with the defense.
Brett McLean, 46, led the AHL affiliate of the Minnesota Wild, the Iowa Wild, as head coach for the last two seasons, following a three-year stint as an assistant with the NHL team. Scott Young, 57, transitions from his role as the Canucks’ director of player personnel, a position he’s held for three years. He also has prior experience as the Pittsburgh Penguins’ director of player development, a role he filled for five years.
