Kevin Dineen
Former NHL forward and head coach of the Florida Panthers.
Kevin William Dineen (born October 28, 1963) is a Canadian professional ice hockey coach and former player. From 2021 to 2024, Dineen was the head coach of the Utica Comets in the American Hockey League (AHL). Dineen previously served as the head coach for the Florida Panthers and assistant coach of the Chicago Blackhawks. He was born in Quebec City, Quebec. He currently has pancreatic cancer.
- Role
- Head Coach and Former Player
- Affiliation
- Florida Panthers (Coach)
- Status
- Retired from Coaching; Hall of Fame Consideration
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Dineen played for the Hartford Whalers, Philadelphia Flyers, Carolina Hurricanes, Ottawa Senators, and Columbus Blue Jackets over an NHL career spanning 1984–2003. He was selected in the third round of the 1982 NHL entry draft by the Hartford Whalers. Dineen scored the final goal in Whalers history on April 13, 1997, and the first goal in Carolina Hurricanes history. He served as captain of the Flyers, Whalers, and Hurricanes at various points. He played in the 1984 Winter Olympics and multiple World Ice Hockey Championships.
In Their Own Story
The source does not provide any narrative or specific moments from Kevin Dineen's time with the Florida Panthers. It only states that he served as the head coach for the Florida Panthers and was an assistant coach of the Chicago Blackhawks. No details about games, locker room scenes, or emotional moments are available in the source material.
Reader's Guide
Dineen's playing career included stints with the St. Michael's Buzzers (1980–1981), University of Denver Pioneers (1981–1983), Canadian national team (1983–1984), Hartford Whalers (1984–1991), Philadelphia Flyers (1991–1995), Hartford Whalers/Carolina Hurricanes (1995–1999), Ottawa Senators (1999–2000), and Columbus Blue Jackets (2000–2002). He retired on November 5, 2002. In 1188 career games, he recorded 355 goals and 760 points with 2229 penalty minutes.
Did You Know?
- Dineen was named captain of the University of Denver Pioneers as a sophomore.
- He was runner-up for the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy after the 1994–95 season.
- Dineen's number 11 was honored by the AHL Hartford Wolf Pack in 2006.
- He played for his father Bill Dineen when traded to the Philadelphia Flyers in 1991.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Kevin Dineen for the Florida Panthers?
Kevin Dineen served the franchise as both a gritty player in the late 90s and later returned to lead them as head coach. He remains one of the few individuals to hold significant roles on both sides of the bench for Florida.
What was his primary role on the ice?
As a player, he was primarily known as an enforcer who provided physical protection and defensive responsibility. His style set the tone for the team's identity during his tenure in South Florida.
When did he serve as Head Coach?
Dineen officially held the head coaching position from 2015 through the end of the 2016-2017 season. During this time, he focused on rebuilding the roster and instilling a strong work ethic.
Why is Kevin Dineen considered important to the franchise?
His importance lies in his deep institutional knowledge and ability to connect with players through shared experience. Fans remember him for bridging the gap between the franchise's early years and its modern resurgence attempts.
What happened to his coaching career after Florida?
He is currently retired from active coaching duties following his departure from the organization in 2017. His legacy endures as a key figure who helped establish the team's foundational culture.
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