The Vegas Golden Knights have announced the appointment of Joel Ward as the head coach of their American Hockey League affiliate, the Henderson Silver Knights.
The 45-year-old takes on his first professional head coaching role after spending the last three seasons as an assistant coach with the Golden Knights. Ward is already familiar with the Henderson organization, having previously served as an assistant coach for the Silver Knights from 2020 to 2023.
Ward brings extensive professional experience to the position, including 11 seasons in the NHL. Over the course of 726 games with the Minnesota Wild, Nashville Predators, Washington Capitals, and San Jose Sharks, he recorded 304 regular-season points (133 goals, 171 assists). Additionally, he contributed 22 goals and 30 assists across 83 Stanley Cup Playoff appearances.
Beyond the NHL, Ward appeared in 209 AHL games over three seasons with the Houston Aeros and represented Team Canada at the 2014 IIHF World Championship.
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