In a move that has electrified the hockey world and sent waves of celebration through the heart of Winnipeg, Dave Lowry, former Winnipeg Jets forward and respected NHL veteran coach, is officially returning to the team — this time behind the bench as Senior Coaching Advisor.
The announcement was made early this morning by Jets General Manager Kevin Cheveldayoff, who confirmed that Lowry will be taking on a major leadership role in the club’s coaching operations, player development, and strategic direction for the 2025–26 NHL season.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dave back to Winnipeg,” Cheveldayoff stated during the press conference. “His wealth of experience, both as a player and as a coach, is invaluable. He knows this city, this team, and the DNA of this franchise.”
The news was met with thunderous applause at Canada Life Centre as Jets fans gathered for the team’s morning skate — many wearing vintage jerseys bearing Lowry’s name and number from his days as a player.
A Full-Circle Homecoming
Dave Lowry’s return marks a poetic chapter in a career that spans over three decades in professional hockey. Known for his gritty playing style, leadership qualities, and sharp hockey IQ, Lowry’s playing career included more than 1,000 NHL games — including a notable stint with the Winnipeg Jets during their early NHL years before the franchise moved to Phoenix (now Arizona Coyotes).
While Lowry played only a brief stint with the Jets as a player, his impact was lasting — his physical presence and veteran demeanor helped mentor young players and stabilize the locker room during a pivotal era for the franchise.
After retiring from the NHL as a player in 2004, Lowry seamlessly transitioned into coaching, taking on several key roles across junior and professional hockey:
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Assistant coach with the Calgary Flames
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Head coach of the Brandon Wheat Kings and Victoria Royals in the WHL
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Assistant and interim head coach with the Winnipeg Jets from 2020–2022
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Most recently, associate coach for the Seattle Kraken
Now, in 2025, Lowry’s journey has brought him full circle — back to Winnipeg, the city where his legacy began to take root in the coaching ranks.
Jets Fans Rejoice: “Welcome Back, Lowry!”
The return of Dave Lowry has sparked a wave of nostalgia and optimism in the Winnipeg hockey community.
Social media exploded with comments from fans and former players alike:
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Jets fans also praised the emotional symbolism of the move — many still remember Lowry stepping up as interim head coach during a turbulent 2021–22 season, where he held the team together after the departure of former head coach Paul Maurice.
“He never lost the room, even in tough times,” said longtime Jets fan Claire Roblin. “The players respected him, and you could see that. Bringing him back is the best thing we could’ve done.”
Father and Son: A Special Reunion?
Adding another layer of excitement to Lowry’s return is the potential reunion with his son, Adam Lowry, who currently serves as captain of the Winnipeg Jets.
Adam Lowry, known for his physical play and defensive prowess, has carved out his own respected NHL career — but fans and media can’t help but speculate about the unique dynamic of a father-son pairing in the coaching and leadership ranks of the same team.
During a brief media appearance following practice, Adam Lowry was visibly moved when asked about his father’s return.
“It’s an honour. He’s been my coach before, and he’s the reason I understand this game the way I do,” Adam said. “But in the room, he’ll be Coach. At home, he’s Dad. We’ll keep those boundaries clear.”
When asked if it felt surreal to have his father return to the same bench where he now serves as captain, Adam smiled:
“It’s special. It really is. But it’s also business. We both want to bring a Cup to this city — that’s the goal.”
What Does a “Senior Coaching Advisor” Do?
The title may sound corporate, but Dave Lowry’s role is anything but ceremonial.
As Senior Coaching Advisor, Lowry is expected to:
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Assist Head Coach Scott Arniel with game strategy, defensive systems, and bench management
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Mentor younger coaching staff and player development teams
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Oversee long-term coaching initiatives for the Jets’ AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose
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Offer advisory support during critical game moments — especially in high-stakes playoff scenarios
Essentially, Lowry becomes the brain trust behind the Jets’ coaching structure — a role similar to the one Ken Hitchcock once played in Edmonton, or Scotty Bowman in Chicago.
“We want to build something sustainable,” said Coach Arniel. “Bringing in Dave adds layers of experience and insight that can make the difference when the margins get razor-thin.”
Looking Ahead: Jets’ 2025–26 Outlook
The Jets are entering the 2025–26 season with renewed expectations after a promising but ultimately disappointing playoff run last season, which saw them eliminated in the second round.
With young stars like Cole Perfetti, Rutger McGroarty, and Ville Heinola coming into their own — and veterans like Mark Scheifele and Kyle Connor still in their prime — the Jets have a unique blend of speed, skill, and grit.
Dave Lowry’s return brings stability and a championship mindset — and with the Central Division looking increasingly competitive, that extra edge may be exactly what the Jets need.
Final Thoughts: A Win for Hockey Culture
In an era where coaching turnover is frequent and front-office decisions are often met with skepticism, the return of Dave Lowry feels different — authentic, earned, and deeply resonant with both fans and players.
He’s not just returning to the team. He’s returning to a community that watched him grow from gritty forward to respected coach — and now, guiding force behind a team with real championship aspirations.
Whether this move leads to the franchise’s first Stanley Cup or simply helps build a stronger foundation for the future, one thing is clear:
Dave Lowry is back where he belongs — in Winnipeg, leading with heart, wisdom, and a deep love for the gameThis article is a fictional representation created for entertainment purposes. While based on real individuals and settings, the events described have not occurred. For official updates, follow the Winnipeg Jets and the NHL’s verified channels.
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