DeBoer takes Sharks’ helm

SAN JOSE, California — San Jose general manager Doug Wilson was so impressed by Peter DeBoer when he interviewed in 2008 that he moved to the top of the list when the Sharks had to search for a new head coach.

The experience DeBoer gained in those intervening years coaching Florida and New Jersey only made Wilson more certain of his decision to hire DeBoer to replace Todd McLellan.

The Sharks officially announced Thursday that DeBoer will be the franchise’s eighth head coach.

“I would just say his interview and what he’s added to himself in the last seven years is really impressive,” Wilson said.

DeBoer’s teams did not have great success, making the playoffs one time in six full seasons. He was fired midway through his fourth year in New Jersey.

DeBoer takes over a team that missed the playoffs for the first time since 2003 and finished 12th in the 14-team Western Conference with 89 points.

“I see a group of veteran guys and young players that have hit a little bit of a rut here,” DeBoer said. “I think their true character is going to be tested. I see a big bounce-back year.”

Sabres turn to Bylsma

BUFFALO — The circumstances have changed for Dan Bylsma in taking over as coach of the young and rebuilding Buffalo Sabres.

The expectations have not for someone previously accustomed to coaching the Sidney Crosby-led Pittsburgh Penguins.

Bylsma’s first objective is developing a winning attitude in Buffalo, on a team that has finished last in the standings the past two seasons.

“The expectation for the winning culture and how we play is not going to change,” Bylsma said after being hired Thursday.