Kevin Dineen — Canadian NHL right winger and coach

Career overview of Kevin Dineen, a Canadian former NHL right winger who played 21 seasons and later coached in the NHL; includes playing career, coaching roles, notable moments and honors.

Overview

Kevin William Dineen is a Canadian former professional ice hockey right winger and coach. He was born on October 28, 1963 in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada. Dineen enjoyed a long playing career in the National Hockey League as a hard-working two-way forward who combined scoring ability with defensive responsibility. After retiring as a player he moved into coaching at the professional level.

Playing career and characteristics

Dineen played as a right winger for a total of 21 seasons in the NHL. Over the course of his career he was known for his competitiveness, work ethic and leadership on and off the ice. He suited up for several clubs during his NHL tenure, including the following teams:

Throughout his playing days Dineen was valued as a versatile forward who could play in scoring and checking roles. He was often relied upon in important situations, including special teams and late-game moments. His longevity in the league reflected a consistent professional approach and the ability to adapt as teams and roles changed.

Notable moments and honors

One of the more widely remembered moments from Dineen's playing career is his scoring the final goal in the history of the Hartford Whalers franchise before it relocated; that goal has a place in the team’s local legacy. Later recognition of his impact in Connecticut came from the American Hockey League's Hartford Wolf Pack: on January 6, 2006 the organization honored him by retiring his number 11 jersey, a gesture that reflects his significance to hockey fans in the region. The final Whalers game and connections to rival clubs are often recalled in discussions of that era; for example, that closing chapter involved a matchup with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Coaching and post-playing career

After stepping away from active play, Dineen transitioned into coaching and management roles. He was named head coach of the Florida Panthers and served behind the bench at the NHL level from 2011 until 2013. Following that stint he continued in professional coaching and later accepted a position as an assistant coach with the Chicago Blackhawks. His coaching work has drawn on his long experience as a player and his reputation for discipline and attention to detail.

Personal life and hockey family

Dineen comes from a family with deep hockey ties; his father, Bill Dineen, had a lengthy career in the sport as both a player and a coach. Kevin lived for many years in Cape Elizabeth, Maine before relocating to Florida in 2010. His life after playing has combined family, community involvement and continuing connection to the game through coaching and mentoring younger players.

Legacy and notable distinctions

Kevin Dineen's legacy is multifaceted: as a dependable NHL player across multiple franchises, as the scorer of a memorable final goal in Hartford Whalers history, and as a coach who worked at the highest level of the sport. He remains a figure often cited in accounts of the Whalers era and in discussions of players who successfully moved into coaching roles after long playing careers. For more on his career timeline, teams and specific seasons, consult specialized hockey databases and team histories.