John Hynes stands as a seasoned figure in the National Hockey League (NHL) coaching fraternity, bringing with him eight seasons of experience as a Head Coach. Throughout his NHL career, Hynes has compiled a record of 284-255-63 in 601 regular-season games, achieving a .524 win percentage while at the helm of both the Nashville Predators and the New Jersey Devils.
At 48 years old, John Hynes recently joined the Wild organization after serving as the Head Coach of the Nashville Predators for nearly four seasons, from 2020 to 2023. Appointed on January 7, 2020, Hynes led the Predators through 248 games, amassing a 134-96-18 record, which translates to a .576 win percentage. Under his guidance, Nashville secured a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs for three consecutive seasons, from 2020 to 2022, demonstrating his ability to deliver competitive team performances.
Before his tenure in Nashville, John Hynes spent over four seasons as the Head Coach of the New Jersey Devils, from 2015 to 2019. During his time with the Devils, he coached 354 games, achieving a 150-159-45 record. This period marked his initial foray into leading an NHL team, providing him with valuable experience in navigating the challenges of the league.
Prior to reaching the NHL, John Hynes honed his coaching skills in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins. He served as their Head Coach for five seasons (2010-2015) and as an Assistant Coach for one season (2009-2010). As Head Coach, Hynes achieved a remarkable 231-126-27 record over 384 games, boasting a .636 win percentage. His leadership propelled Wilkes-Barre to five consecutive Calder Cup Playoffs appearances. Notably, his teams were defensively strong, allowing the fewest goals in the AHL in four out of his five seasons as Head Coach. His success in the AHL was recognized in 2011 when he was named the AHL’s Coach of the Year.
John Hynes’ coaching journey also includes significant involvement with USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program. Spanning nine seasons, he served as an Assistant Coach (1998-2000, 2001-02) and Head Coach (2003-2009). During his time, Team USA achieved considerable international success, securing four medals at the IIHF World Under-18 Championships, including gold medals in 2002 and 2006.
Furthermore, John Hynes contributed to Team USA’s international competitions as an Assistant Coach at the 2004 IIHF World Junior Championship, where the team won its first gold medal since 1997. He also served as Head Coach for Team USA at the 2016 IIHF World Championship, and as an Assistant Coach at both the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and the 2019 IIHF World Championship, showcasing his continued involvement in international hockey at various levels.
John Hynes’ background in hockey extends to his playing days. He played forward at Boston University from 1993 to 1997, contributing to a successful era for the Terriers. During his time, Boston University reached four consecutive Frozen Four appearances and won the NCAA championship in 1995. His contributions to the sport in his home state were recognized with his induction into the Rhode Island Hockey Hall of Fame on August 23, 2023.
Off the ice, John Hynes is married to Sarah, and they have three daughters: Sophia, Julia, and Anna.
