A native of Regina, Saskatchewan, Preston has previously been an NHL assistant coach with Chicago (1991-1995), Calgary (1997-2000 & 2003-2009), and San Jose (2000-2003). He was the Head Coach for Regina of the Western Hockey League (WHL) from 1995-97 and the General Manager/Head Coach of Lethbridge (WHL) from 2009-13.
Preston played in the NHL from 1979-1987, appearing with the Chicago Blackhawks and New Jersey Devils. He played in 580 NHL games, scoring 127-164=291 points. He also played in the World Hockey Association (WHA), winning championships with the Houston Aeros (1974-1975) and Winnipeg Jets (1978-1979). Preston was also named the 1979 WHL Playoff MVP.