PWHL Minnesota announces former NHL defenseman Ken Klee to become new head coach

We have the first coaching change in the history of the Professional Women’s Hockey League, even though they have not even played a game yet.

On Wednesday, PWHL Minnesota announced that former NHL defenseman Ken Klee will take over as the head coach for the inaugural season.

A 14-year NHL veteran, Klee was the head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Teams that won gold at the World Championships in 2015 and 2016. He also served as an assistant coach of the Tampa Bay Lightning’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Syracuse Crunch from 2017-19.

“The hockey energy in Minnesota is just fantastic, and I’m delighted to be part of it,” Klee mentioned in a release. “This position provides a terrific opportunity to coach outstanding players who represent the top level of professionalism, and to connect with a first-rate hockey community. I can’t wait to get started.”

Klee played 934 games in the NHL, making stops with the Toronto Maple Leafs, New Jersey Devils, Colorado Avalanche and a few others. He totaled 195 points, and was a member of the Washington Capitals team that made it to the Stanley Cup Finals in 1998.

“Ken Klee brings a proven record of success to our coaching staff,” GM Natalie Darwitz stated. “We are extremely pleased — for our players, our fans and our organization — that he has joined us.”

Charlie Burggraf, who was revealed to be the franchise’s first coach back in September, decided to step away from the team, just one week before the Minnesota is scheduled to play Boston to begin their first season.

“My family and I have decided that stepping away from the head coaching position at Team Minnesota is the right move for us at this time,” said the former Bethel College coach. “I wish both the PWHL, and especially Team Minnesota, great success.”

Minnesota’s home opener at Xcel Energy Center is set for Jan. 6, when they host Montreal.

The inaugural game in the history of the PWHL is set for New Year’s Day, when Toronto hosts New York at the Mattamy Athletic Centre (formerly Maple Leaf Gardens).