LAS VEGAS, NV—Golden Knights GM George McPhee announced on Thursday, June 8 that the team has appointed Mike Kelly, 57, as an assistant coach.

The former assistant for the Vancouver Canucks (2007-2008), Saint John Sea Dogs of the QMJHL (2010-2012), and Florida Panthers (2014-2016) will join Head Coach Gerard Gallant with whom he worked during his time with the Sea Dogs and Panthers.

Gallant said in a statement that he is looking forward to working with Kelly again and bringing the “success in both Florida and Saint John” to Las Vegas. He also contended that Kelly has a “wealth of hockey knowledge.”

“We are very proud of the addition of Mike to our team’s coaching staff. His experience as a coach at various level within professional hockey and as a recent assistant coach under Gerard with the Panthers made him a well-rounded candidate. His familiarity with Gerard’s coaching style and practices will make this a seamless transition for our club,” said McPhee of the new hire.

So far, the Golden Knights have signed two players:  Calgary, Alberta native Reid Duke, 21, (who stands at six feet tall and weighs 190 pounds, and Vadim Shipachyov, 30, who hails from Cherepovets, Russia SFSR, Soviet Union, stands at six feet tall, and weighs 187 pounds. They are in the process of completing their roster.

The other 30 NHL teams’ deadline to submit their lists of protected players for the NHL Expansion Draft is set for 5:00 p.m. EST on June 17. The Golden Knights will receive the lists at 10:00 a.m. the following day. Their deadline to submit their selections is 10:00 a.m. on June 21, which will be announced at the NHL Awards, to be held in Las Vegas at 7:30 p.m. EST on June 21.

The Golden Knights are required to select one player from each team to obtain a minimum of 14 forwards, nine defensemen, and three goalies, along with a minimum of 20 players under contract for the upcoming season.