A former NHL player and longtime coach, known for his defensive-minded systems and ability to get the most out of his teams.
Dave Tippett is a name synonymous with excellence in the National Hockey League (NHL). With a storied playing career and an even more impressive coaching résumé, Tippett has cemented his status as one of the greatest coaches in NHL history.
Tippett's journey in the NHL began as a player, where he showcased his skills as a winger for several teams, including the Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers, and Washington Capitals. Over the course of 11 seasons, he amassed a respectable 262 points in 593 games.
Before making the jump to the NHL, Tippett honed his skills in the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) with the Prince Albert Raiders. In his first two seasons, he tallied an impressive 53 goals and 125 points in 60 games, followed by 42 goals and 110 points in the subsequent season.
Tippett's collegiate career took him to the University of North Dakota, where he captained the Fighting Sioux to a Frozen Four championship in 1982. His two-year stint with the team saw him score 28 goals and 87 points in 79 games.
Tippett's transition to coaching began in 1994, and it wasn't long before he made a name for himself as a premier coach in the NHL.
In 2002, Tippett took the reins as head coach of the Dallas Stars, a position he held for seven seasons. During his tenure, the Stars made the playoffs five times, with Tippett earning a Jack Adams Award nomination in 2006.
In 2009, Tippett joined the Phoenix Coyotes (later rebranded as the Arizona Coyotes) as head coach, a role he held for eight seasons. The 2009-2010 season proved to be a watershed moment, as Tippett guided the Coyotes to their first playoff berth in eight years, earning him the Jack Adams Award as NHL Coach of the Year.
In 2019, Tippett became the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, a position he held until 2022. During his three-year stint, the Oilers made the playoffs twice, with Tippett reaching the 500-win milestone in 2020.
Tippett's impressive coaching résumé is complemented by numerous accolades, including:
Dave Tippett's storied career has left an indelible mark on the NHL. As a coach, he has inspired and guided countless players, earning the respect and admiration of his peers and fans alike. His ability to adapt and innovate has made him a stalwart of the coaching community, ensuring his legacy as one of the greatest coaches in NHL history.
65 Years Old
The greatest hockey player of all time, holding numerous records, including most career goals and assists, and leading his team to four Stanley Cup championships. A legendary athlete and iconic figure in the sport.
60 Years Old
A legendary hockey player who won two Stanley Cups and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist, known for his incredible on-ice skills and overcoming health issues to dominate the sport.
84 Years Old
A legendary Hall of Famer who dominated the NHL as a prolific goal-scorer and later became a successful coach and executive, known for his iconic mustache and charismatic personality.
65 Years Old
A legendary defenseman who won five Norris Trophies and holds the record for most goals, assists, and points by a defenseman in NHL history. He's a Boston Bruins icon and one of the greatest players of all time.
92 Years Old
Legendary coach with a record nine Stanley Cup championships, known for his innovative systems and ability to adapt to any team.
63 Years Old
A legendary figure in the NHL, coaching teams to Stanley Cup championships and Olympic gold medals, known for his intense and demanding coaching style.