LOWELL — Norm Bazin, who has elevated the UMass Lowell hockey program to unprecedented heights during his six-year tenure, has turned down a professional coaching opportunity.

The Vancouver Canucks offered Bazin their head coaching position in Utica, N.Y. The Comets are Vancouver’s American Hockey League affiliate. Bazin turned down the offer Saturday and will remain at UMass Lowell.

Athletic director Dana Skinner has been in negotiations with Bazin about extending his contract, which currently has two years remaining. Skinner said he’s hopeful a deal will be reached in the coming days.

Bazin, 46, has guided the River Hawks to three Hockey East playoff championships and five NCAA Tournament appearances.

“I’m at peace with my decision,” Bazin told The Sun during an interview in his Tsongas Center office Wednesday afternoon. “I’m excited to be working with the group here.”

Bazin interviewed three times with Vancouver, once in Buffalo, N.Y., and twice in Boston. Vancouver reached out to Bazin after UML’s 2016-17 season came to a close with an overtime loss to Notre Dame.

“He’s such a visible part of the university. I’m thrilled he’s going to be with us,” Skinner said.

— BARRY SCANLON