Dan Muse is set to take the helm as head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins for the first time, beginning a new chapter in his career. This marks a significant milestone for Muse, who was appointed on June 4, 2023. With over two decades of coaching experience, he previously served as an assistant coach for both the New York Rangers and the Nashville Predators.
Coaching Achievements
During his tenure with NHL teams, Muse has been pivotal in leading his squads to notable successes. He contributed to three divisional titles and two President’s Trophies. The trophies were secured during his time with Nashville in 2017-18 and with New York in 2023-24.
Background and Experience
- Age: 42 years
- Place of Origin: Canton, Massachusetts
- NCAA Champion: Yale University, 2013
- USHL Champion: Chicago, 2017
- IIHF U18 Champion: Team USA, 2023
- IIHF U20 Champion: Team USA, 2013
Muse graduated from Stonehill College in 2005 and began his coaching career shortly after. He and his wife, Maureen, are parents to four children: Fiona, Niamh, Kieran, and Honora.
Sidney Crosby Enters His 21st Season
The 2025-26 season is significant for Penguins captain Sidney Crosby. This year, he enters his 21st season with the team, an unprecedented longevity in franchise history. His teammates Evgeni Malkin and Kris Letang also boast lengthy tenures, each playing for 20 seasons.
Crosby’s Milestones
As the game commences, Crosby will become only the fourth player in NHL history to spend over 21 seasons with one franchise. He is joined by legends Alex Delvecchio, Stan Mikita, and Steve Yzerman.
- Active Skaters – Games Played: 1,352
- Active Points Leader: 1,687
- Assists Leader: 1,062
- Goals Scored: 625
Crosby’s points rank him ninth in NHL history.
Kris Letang’s Legacy
Defenseman Kris Letang also begins his 20th season with the Penguins. He is poised to tie an NHL record as one of only three defensemen to achieve this feat. Letang is just three assists shy of reaching 600 career assists, a milestone that would make him the tenth defenseman in history to do so with one team.
Promising Rookies
This season may also see the NHL debuts of forwards Ben Kindel and defenseman Harrison Brunicke. Both are among the youngest players ever to join the franchise.
- Ben Kindel: Born April 19, 2007
- Harrison Brunicke: Born April 8, 2006
Kindel aims to be the fifth-youngest player to debut with the Penguins, while Brunicke looks to make his mark as the sixth-youngest defenseman.
Veteran Presence and New Talent
Pittsburgh’s roster combines seasoned veterans and emerging talents. With Crosby leading the way and Muse as the new head coach, fans can look forward to an exciting and competitive 2025-26 season.
