Vegas Golden Knights
· 2026-06-26
Vegas Golden Knights General Manager Kelly McCrimmon announced Joel Ward as the new head coach of the Henderson Silver Knights on June 25, 2026.
The Henderson Silver Knights, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Vegas Golden Knights, have a new head coach, with Joel Ward taking the reins.
Ward, 45, rejoins the Silver Knights for his first professional head coaching position, having previously served as an assistant coach for the Golden Knights from 2023-26.
This move is significant for the Vegas Golden Knights, as Ward will be responsible for developing the team's prospects and building a winning environment in Henderson.
The Vegas Golden Knights are currently 4th in the Western Conference, with a 39-26 record, and are on a W3 streak, after losing 0-3 to the Carolina Hurricanes on June 15, 2026.
Ward succeeds Ryan Craig, who was named the head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights on June 17, and will look to make an immediate impact on the team.
The Silver Knights play their home games at Lee’s Family Forum, a state-of-the-art arena in Henderson, NV, and are owned in part by Bill Foley and his family.
Ward has spent his entire professional coaching career with the Golden Knights organization, and has a strong foundation as a player, having played parts of 11 seasons in the National Hockey League.
He collected 133 goals and 304 points in his NHL career, and also appeared in 83 career playoff games, registering 22 goals and 52 points.
The Vegas Golden Knights organization is excited to have Ward lead the Silver Knights, and believe he will have a meaningful impact on the development of their prospects.
Ward is a respected coach and former player, and his exceptional ability to connect with players and staff members will be an asset to the team.
The Silver Knights are looking to build on their success, and with Ward at the helm, they are poised for a strong season.