The Dallas Stars have parted ways with head coach Pete DeBoer after their elimination by the Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference Final, the team confirmed Friday. This marks the third straight year the Stars have been defeated in the conference final, with the last two losses coming against the Oilers.
In a statement, Stars General Manager Jim Nill stated the organization felt a `new voice` was necessary to overcome their recent playoff struggles and pursue the franchise`s second Stanley Cup championship.
“We appreciate all that Pete has contributed to our organization over the past three seasons and wish him success in his future endeavors,” Nill commented.
DeBoer was hired by the Stars in 2022 and oversaw a period of considerable regular-season success during his three years with the team. Under his guidance, Dallas secured the Central Division title in the 2023-24 season and never finished below second place in the standings.
Despite their regular-season performance, DeBoer could not lead the team beyond the conference final round. In 2023, Dallas was eliminated by the Vegas Golden Knights in six games, followed by consecutive playoff exits against the Oilers in the last two seasons.
This year`s series against Edmonton was less competitive, as the Oilers won four straight games to close it out in just five contests. A notable moment occurred in Game 5 when DeBoer made the controversial decision to remove starting goaltender Jake Oettinger less than ten minutes into the first period after the team fell behind 2-0.
DeBoer`s explanation for the goalie change was met with some confusion, and Oettinger later described the situation as `embarrassing.`
DeBoer`s tenure in Dallas concludes with a regular-season record of 149-68-29 and a playoff record of 29-27. The Stars are now among several NHL teams searching for a new head coach this offseason, as eight other vacancies have already been filled.
Although several leading coaching candidates have already been hired elsewhere, the head coaching position in Dallas remains highly attractive. The Stars ranked as the fourth-winningest team in the league over the past three seasons and boast a core of young players under contract for the coming years.
As for DeBoer`s future, it remains to be seen when and if he will receive another head coaching role. His last two positions, with Dallas and Vegas, each lasted exactly three seasons. While securing a job before the 2025-26 season appears improbable, he could be a prime candidate for any coaching changes made during the next season.
