Paul Bissonnette Claims Penguins GM Kyle Dubas Badly Wants $2.1 Bn Franchise’s HC Following Mike Sullivan’s Exit

A new coaching rumor is making the rounds in the NHL, which centers on Kyle Dubas. According to former NHL player and analyst Paul Bissonnette, the current Pittsburgh Penguins general manager is eager to reunite with longtime associate Sheldon Keefe.

Sheldon Keefe Heading to Pittsburgh?

The speculation came up on the latest episode of the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast, where Bissonnette didn’t hold back. “[Kyle] Dubas is foaming out the mouth to bring [Sheldon] Keefe into f****** Pittsburgh,” he said.

This comes just days after the Penguins announced the departure of head coach Mike Sullivan. While some reports suggest Sullivan didn’t want to leave, Bissonnette claimed he was “pushed out,” reportedly against his wishes.

Dubas, who now serves as president of hockey operations and GM in Pittsburgh, is tasked with hiring a new head coach. And if Bissonnette’s claim holds weight, Keefe may be at the top of his list.

Keefe and Dubas go way back. Their partnership began with the Soo Greyhounds in the OHL, continued with the Toronto Marlies in the AHL, and continued in the NHL with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Dubas promoted Keefe to Leafs head coach in 2019 after firing Mike Babcock.

Keefe is currently under contract with the New Jersey Devils, having just finished his first season with the franchise. While there’s no official sign he wants to leave, the rumors persist, primarily fueled by his long-standing relationship with Dubas.

Despite the buzz, there’s no confirmation Dubas has approached Keefe. The Penguins are still finalizing their list of coaching candidates, with Dubas stating earlier this week that virtual and in-person interviews will continue through May and into early June.

Kyle Dubas Faces Pressure To Deliver as Penguins Seek New Direction

For Dubas, the next few months are critical. The Penguins have missed the playoffs for three straight seasons, and time is ticking with Sidney Crosby still on the roster. With more than $20 million in projected cap space, Dubas has flexibility but needs the right leadership behind the bench to make a playoff push.

In Toronto, Dubas was known for surrounding himself with familiar faces. That trend has followed him to Pittsburgh. From assistant GM Jason Spezza to several scouting and development staff members, many of Dubas’ hires have ties to him from previous stops.

Still, picking the next head coach might be his biggest decision yet. While Keefe appears to be a logical fit, it’s complicated. He’s under contract, the Devils are still focused on their playoff hopes, and there’s no official signal that either side is ready to move on.

Notably, Dubas has never hired an NHL head coach from scratch. While he replaced Babcock with Keefe in Toronto, that was an internal promotion within an organization he already controlled.

For now, the search remains open. The Penguins’ front office is staying quiet, and no candidates — familiar or otherwise — have been confirmed. Whether Dubas turns to someone he knows or ventures outside his circle remains to be seen.