Seattle Kraken announce Dave Hakstol has been fired

The Seattle Kraken missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season, a disappointing follow up to last year's thrilling chase that saw them advance within one victory of a spot in the Western Conference Final. And because of it, there will be a new  face behind the bench next season.

Kraken general manager Ron Francis has announced that head coach Dave Hakstol has been relieved of his duties, and the search for a new bench boss will commence immediately. 

“I thank Dave for his hard work and dedication to the Kraken franchise,” said Francis in an official statement. “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, the Kraken will not be retaining assistant coach Paul McFarland. 

“We would also like to thank Paul for his contributions to our hockey team and wish him and his family well moving forward,” said Francis.

Hired as the first coach in franchise history, Hakstol amassed a record of 107-112-27 and was named a finalist for the Jack Adams Trophy as the League's best coach last season. 

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