A New Chapter for the Golden Knights
The Vegas Golden Knights announced on Tuesday that Ryan Craig has been named the franchise’s new head coach, succeeding John Tortorella, who guided the team to the 2026 Stanley Cup Final despite being hired late in the regular season.
Craig’s appointment comes after a playing career that included two seasons with the Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton Penguins, the AHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he honed his defensive instincts and learned the value of disciplined structure.
From Player to Bench Boss
His coaching journey began as an assistant with the Wilkes‑Barre/Scranton Penguins, where he helped develop prospects and refined a reputation for blending youthful energy with veteran savvy.
After stints with the ECHL’s Cincinnati Cyclones and the AHL’s Chicago Wolves, Craig earned praise for his ability to adapt game plans on the fly and for fostering a competitive culture within the locker room.
Tortorella’s tenure was marked by a rapid transformation of the Golden Knights into a defensive powerhouse, culminating in a dramatic run to the championship series that captured the imagination of fans across the league.
With Craig now at the helm, the organization hopes to blend the aggressive style that defined Tortorella’s teams with a fresh emphasis on integrating younger talent, aiming to sustain the momentum as the next season approaches.