BUFFALO, N.Y. -- Dan Bylsma was officially named head coach of the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday.
The former Pittsburgh Penguins head coach won a Stanley Cup with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in his first year as bench boss. He was the head coach for Team USA at the 2014 Olympics.
The Penguins relieved Bylsma of his duties one year ago after six seasons and an overall record of 252-117-32. He won the Jack Adams Award in 2011, given to the league's most outstanding coach.
Sitting next to General Manager Tim Murray, Bylsma told the media gathered at First Niagara Center that while sitting on the sidelines for the past year, he watched the developments in Buffalo. The team finished dead-last for a second straight season but fans avidly watched for signs of hope in young players and prospects.
Bylsma has worked with Jack Eichel, presumed to be the Sabres' pick at No. 2 in June's draft. Bylsma called him an "elite, elite player." Bylsma also said Eichel and last year's top draft choice, Sam Reinhart, could one day be seen in the same light as Crosby and Malkin.
Bylsma also said the continued commitment of owners Terry and Kim Pegula has been evident across the league, and played a role in his decision.
Watch the entire press conference with Bylsma and Murray (23 minutes):