Pair of P.E.I. coaches set to run Golden Knights

When Gerard Gallant and Mike Kelly were both out of a job during the 2008-09 NHL season, they would meet up once a week for breakfast in their native province of Prince Edward Island.

Different job opportunities were discussed, and they quickly got in touch when an opening with the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League’s Saint John Sea Dogs came up.

Gallant served as the head coach and Kelly as the general manager and associate coach for the Sea Dogs. Along with star players such as Jonathan Huberdeau, the Sea Dogs went on to win four straight QMJHL titles, including a Memorial Cup in 2011.

Fast forward to this season and the duo are still working together, this time with the expansion Vegas Golden Knights. Gallant will serve as the head coach, and Kelly an assistant.

CP PHOTO DARRYL DYCK Vegas Golden Knights head coach Gerard Gallant stands behind the bench during a preseason NHL hockey game against the Vancouver Canucks in Vancouver on Sept. 17.