Vegas Golden Knights Name Ryan Craig as New Head Coach

The Vegas Golden Knights have named Ryan Craig as the team's new head coach, as announced by General Manager Kelly McCrimmon on June 17, 2026. Craig becomes the fifth head coach in the team's history, bringing a wealth of experience from his time as head coach of the Henderson Silver Knights, the organization's affiliate in the American Hockey League. During his tenure with the Silver Knights, Craig led the team to increased win totals each season, culminating in a record 39-21-12 season in 2025-26. Prior to his time in Henderson, Craig served as an assistant coach with the Golden Knights for six seasons, helping the team reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs in five of those seasons. Craig's playing career spanned eight years in the NHL, with stints with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Columbus Blue Jackets. He also played in 711 AHL games and served as captain on nine teams, including the 2015-16 Calder Cup Champion Lake Erie Monsters. Craig's appointment as head coach marks a new era for the Vegas Golden Knights, with the team looking to build on their recent success, including their Stanley Cup win in 2022-23. With Craig at the helm, the Golden Knights will be looking to make a strong push in the upcoming season. The team's ownership group, Black Knight Sports and Entertainment LLC, will be hoping that Craig's experience and leadership will bring continued success to the franchise. Craig's coaching philosophy and approach will be closely watched as the team prepares for the new season. The Vegas Golden Knights are a National Hockey League franchise owned and operated by Black Knight Sports and Entertainment LLC, established by Owner and Chairman Bill Foley and his family.