DALLAS - The Dallas Stars have hired Glen Gulutzan to be their next coach, hoping his success with their top affiliate will continue in the NHL.
Gulutzan (GULL'-it-zen) is 39 and has never played or coached in the NHL. His record in the minors and his familiarity with the players he's groomed for the Stars helped him emerge from a group of better-known candidates.
Gulutzan received a two-year contract with a club option for a third.
He replaces Marc Crawford, who was fired after a loss in the season finale kept Dallas out of the playoffs.
Gulutzan led the Texas Stars to the AHL finals in their inaugural season in 2010, and to the playoffs again last season. He spent the previous six years coaching the Las Vegas Wranglers of the ECHL.
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