The United States has appointed John Hynes as the head coach for their men’s national team for the upcoming IIHF World Championship, which will be held in Prague and Ostrava from May 10th to 26th. As announced by USA Hockey on Friday, Hynes had previously coached the national team in 2019 and recently completed his first season as the Wild’s head coach in the NHL. Despite not making the playoffs, Hynes brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked at both the NHL and AHL levels.
Brett Peterson, who is the general manager of the 2024 U.S. men’s national team and a member of Florida Panthers’ management team, expressed confidence in Hynes’ leadership abilities. Peterson highlighted Hynes’ passion, energy, and extensive experience in coaching on a world stage as key strengths that will benefit the national team in their quest for gold.
Hynes is a native of Warwick, Rhode Island and has a longstanding history with USA Hockey. From 2003 to 2009 he served as a head coach for the national team development program before becoming an assistant coach for two seasons with Nashville Predators before taking over as head coach with New Jersey Devils for three seasons. He also has personal success in collegiate hockey having played at Boston University and competing in four NCAA Frozen Fours where they won championship title in 1995.
