When San Jose Sharks prospect Brady Knowling decided to leave the United States National Team Development Program and join the Ontario Hockey League's Saginaw Spirit, he was expecting to play for Saginaw's long-time bench boss Chris Lazary. As we all know though, the world of sports can be unpredictable, as Lazary has left the Spirit to join the University of Michigan.

Lazary, 44, joined the Spirit nearly a decade ago as an assistant coach before being given an opportunity to lead the team after they opted to move on from Troy Smith early in the 2018-19 season. During his time leading the Spirit, Lazary led the team to a record of 260-180-30 and coached notable Sharks prospects like Michael Misa and Igor Chernyshov. 

Lazary will serve as an associate head coach for the Michigan Wolverines beginning in the 2026-27 season.