Las Vegas NHL team to get WHL coach as assistant GM

George McPhee is making his first hire for Las Vegas’ NHL expansion team.

Kelly McCrimmon is expected to join the organization as assistant general manager. McCrimmon, 55, has been serving as head coach, general manager and part owner of the Brandon (Manitoba) Wheat Kings of the Western Hockey League.

Several news organizations in Canada reported the deal is done and an announcement is expected this week.

McPhee did not return a phone call Saturday.

McCrimmon has been with Brandon since 1988 when he served as an assistant coach. He became head coach and general manager the following season and was named the WHL’s Executive of the Year in 1995, 2010 and 2015. He also served as an assistant coach for Canada at the 2016 World Junior Championships.

McCrimmon played collegiately at Michigan from 1980 to 1984 after playing two years for the Wheat Kings in 1978 to 1980.

Contact Steve Carp at scarp@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2913. Follow on Twitter: @stevecarprj