NHL6d ago
Arizona State Eyes Avalanche Assistant as Next Hockey Coach
Dave Hakstol in discussions to lead Sun Devils program following recent leadership change
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Ongoing Discussions for New Leadership
Arizona State University continues conversations with Colorado Avalanche assistant Dave Hakstol about taking over as head coach of the men's hockey team. The Avalanche have allowed Hakstol to explore the opportunity, with talks still active and a decision anticipated sometime this week. The move comes as the program seeks stability after placing its previous coach on leave.
Background on Recent Program Changes
The university placed former coach Greg Powers on administrative leave late last month. This followed an incident in which defenseman Matthew Mayich collapsed during an early morning outdoor workout on August 20 at Sun Angel Stadium. Mayich, who has remained hospitalized, is not expected to recover from the exertional heat stroke. An internal review found the hockey program had not submitted a training plan for review beforehand and that the session occurred in nearly 90-degree conditions. An anonymous letter from seven players prompted the leave, after which assistant Mike Corbett assumed interim duties.
Hakstol Brings Extensive Experience
Hakstol previously spent 11 years as head coach at North Dakota from 2004 to 2015, compiling a 289-143-43 record with 11 straight NCAA tournament appearances and seven Frozen Four berths. He later served as head coach for the Philadelphia Flyers from 2015 to 2018 and in Seattle from 2021 to 2024 before joining the Avalanche staff in 2025. He remained on the ice for Colorado's practice as discussions with Arizona State progressed.
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