Pittsburgh Penguins president of hockey operations Kyle Dubas completed a difficult task in the sports executive world during the 2025-26 campaign: build for the future while also assembling a roster that clinches a postseason berth. The franchise returned to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2022, and while the trip was far too brief for fans’ liking, it gave people a reason to be fairly optimistic heading into next season. Dubas is still under considerable pressure to formulate a winning vision for the future. A job that big may require some extra help, and it may also require someone who is eternally connected to the team and city.
Ron Francis is returning to the Penguins as special advisor, hockey operations, according to the organization’s official X account. The 63-year-old native of Ontario, Canada struggled as the top man in charge on both the Carolina Hurricanes and Seattle Kraken, but this new role could be perfect for him and Pittsburgh.
Francis helped the Pens win their first two Stanley Cup Championships in 1991 and 1992, totaling 15 goals and 29 assists across those two magnificent playoff runs. Despite his shortcomings as a general manager, this Hall of Famer has wisdom to offer the Dubas-led front office. This is a crowd-pleasing move that could give the fan base a welcome burst of nostalgia. Beyond bringing feel-good vibes, though, Francis could provide some insight that helps Pittsburgh become even more offensively potent.
No. 10 tallied 1,249 assists for his career, ranking only behind “The Great One” Wayne Gretzky on the all-time list. He cannot relive his glory days on the ice, but maybe Ron Francis can serve as a valuable soundboard for Kyle Dubas during an important offseason.
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