Ex-Leafs coach Dave Hakstol fired by Kraken

The Seattle Kraken have announced a slew of changes behind their bench for next season, including Dave Hakstol being relieved as head coach.

After a surprise run to the post-season in 2022-23 that included a first round victory against the Colorado Avalanche, the Seattle Kraken entered the 2023-24 season with higher expectations than originally planned. They slumped to the tune of a 34-35-13 record which was good for 81 points compared to the 46-28-8 record that propelled them to a 100-point season the year prior.

Dave Hakstol had been in charge of the Kraken since their inauguration and through 3 seasons compiled a 107-112-27 record. Prior to taking on the job in Seattle, Hakstol was an assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2019-20 and 2020-21 as well as head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers between 2015-16 and 2018-19.

General Manager Ron Francis had this to say following the changes:


«Following our end-of-the-season review, we have decided to make a change at our head coach position. These decisions are never easy, but we feel this is a necessary step to help ensure our team continues to improve and evolve. Dave is a good coach and a terrific person. We wish him and his family all the best. We will begin our search for the Kraken's next head coach immediately.»


Additionally, assistant coach Paul McFarland was also let go by the Kraken.


The Kraken struggled mightily this season as they finished 4th last in goals scored, had bottom-of-table special teams, and finished 10th last in the NHL standings as well as 6th place in the Pacific Division ahead of just the Anaheim Ducks and San Jose Sharks.