Dave Lowry Returns to Calgary Flames as Assistant Coach
Dave Lowry is back behind an NHL bench, and this time it’s a familiar one: the Calgary Flames. With a wealth of experience in both junior hockey and the NHL, Lowry has been named an assistant coach, marking an important new chapter in his coaching career.
A Notable Coaching Tenure in Victoria
Lowry’s last prominent role was as the head coach of the Victoria Royals from 2012 to 2017. During his five-year tenure, he left a significant mark on the franchise, amassing a commendable record of 199 wins, 112 losses, and 22 overtime losses. His teams consistently reached the playoffs, showcasing his ability to develop talent and foster a competitive spirit among players.
The 2015-16 season stands out as a highlight, during which the Royals achieved a franchise-best 106-point performance. Recognized for his effective coaching style, Lowry earned two WHL Coach of the Year awards during this period, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier coach in Canadian junior hockey.
Expanding His Coaching Resume
After his successful stint in Victoria, Lowry transitioned to the NHL, gaining valuable experience in various coaching roles across several teams. He has held positions with the Los Angeles Kings, Winnipeg Jets, and most recently, the Seattle Kraken, where he spent the past three seasons. His experience in the NHL also includes a tenure as interim head coach of the Jets during the 2021-22 season, adding to his diverse coaching background.
A Familiar Face in Calgary
David Lowry’s return to the Flames is noteworthy given his previous involvement with the team as an assistant coach from 2009 to 2012. Notably, he guided the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen to a league-best record in the 2008-09 season, establishing himself as a skilled strategist and leader. His deep roots with the franchise make his new role all the more significant, as he joins a coaching staff working to elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
A Veteran Player with Depth
Before transitioning to coaching, Lowry enjoyed a solid playing career, grinding through more than 1,000 NHL games with several teams, including the Vancouver Canucks, St. Louis Blues, Florida Panthers, San Jose Sharks, and Calgary Flames. As a player, he held leadership roles, serving as captain of the Flames from 2000 to 2002. This extensive experience gives him a unique perspective, allowing him to connect with players on several levels—from strategy to the emotional aspects of the game.
The Coaching Staff and Future Aspirations
Joining Lowry in the Flames’ coaching setup are head coach Ryan Huska and fellow assistants Trent Cull, Cail MacLean, Jamie Pringle, and Jason LaBarbera. Lowry fills the gap left by Brad Larsen, who departed the organization for personal reasons. His addition brings a wealth of knowledge and experience that the Flames hope to leverage in their pursuit of success.
Interestingly, the Flames also have a connection to Victoria through their recent first-round draft pick, Cole Reschny, who played for the Royals for the past two seasons. This tie further emphasizes Lowry’s growing influence on the Flames organization.
As the hockey season approaches, all eyes will be on the Calgary Flames and how their revamped coaching staff, led by veterans like Dave Lowry, shapes the team’s future.