Dan Bylsma has been relieved of his duties as head coach of the Pittsburgh Penguins, it was announced today by Executive Vice President and General Manager Jim Rutherford.

Bylsma had coached the Penguins for five-plus seasons, compiling a record of 252-117-32 and leading the team to the Stanley Cup in 2009.

“Dan is a good man and a good coach, but I thought we needed a change in direction moving forward,” Rutherford said. “I have no doubt that he will go on to be a head coach in the National Hockey League and have success. The search for our new head coach will begin immediately.”

“We want to thank Dan for everything he has done for the Penguins organization,” co-owners Mario Lemieux and Ron Burkle said in a joint statement. “He’ll always be remembered as a big part of Pittsburgh sports history for his role in our Stanley Cup championship in 2009. We wish all the best to him and his family.”

Assistant coaches Tony Granato, Todd Reirden and Jacques Martin, goaltending coach Mike Bales and video coordinator Andy Saucier will be evaluated by Rutherford and the incoming head coach. Rutherford will evaluate the remainder of the hockey operations staff.