Tempe, AZ – Arizona State University’s Sun Devil Athletics announced Thursday that former Colorado Avalanche assistant coach Dave Hakstol will become the new head coach of the men’s hockey team. The decision comes after longtime head coach Greg Powers was placed on paid administrative leave following the collapse of defenseman Matthew Mayich during a workout on Aug. 20.
Hakstol’s coaching background
Hakstol brings a wealth of experience from both the collegiate and professional ranks. He spent 11 seasons at the University of North Dakota, his alma mater, guiding the Fighting Sioux to seven Frozen Four appearances and a national runner‑up finish in his first season. In 2015 he transitioned to the NHL, serving as head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers for three seasons and later leading the Seattle Kraken, where he helped the expansion franchise reach the Stanley Cup playoffs for the first time in 2022.
Over seven seasons as an NHL head coach, Hakstol compiled a 241‑213 record and guided his teams to three playoff appearances. Earlier this week the Colorado Avalanche granted him permission to explore the opportunity at Arizona State and begin negotiations.
University statement
Sun Devil Athletics Director Graham Rossini said, “We welcome Dave Hakstol and his family to Arizona State University. His success building championship‑caliber programs, developing players for the highest level of the sport, and leading organizations in the NHL speaks to his knowledge of the game and his ability to develop talent.” Rossini added, “We appreciate Dave’s belief in ASU and look forward to supporting him as we continue to build Sun Devil Hockey into one of the nation’s premier programs.”
Hakstol’s vision for ASU
Hakstol expressed enthusiasm about returning to the college level, stating, “This is a special opportunity, and I couldn’t be more excited to return to college hockey and bring a winning culture to Arizona State Sun Devil Hockey. Our goal is to grow a championship‑caliber program, and we will.”
Context of the coaching change
The coaching change follows the serious incident involving defenseman Matthew Mayich, who remains hospitalized and is unlikely to fully recover, according to attorney Rob Carey. The Mayich family and several anonymous players have called for a thorough investigation and the removal of all ASU coaches. While Powers was placed on administrative leave, the university has not yet announced a final decision regarding his employment status.
Hakstol’s appointment signals a commitment by Arizona State to restore stability and competitive momentum to its hockey program. The university hopes his track record of developing talent and achieving success at both the NCAA and NHL levels will translate into on‑ice results for the Sun Devils.
Looking ahead
Fans can expect Hakstol to begin assembling his coaching staff and recruiting class in the coming weeks, with the goal of fielding a competitive roster for the upcoming season. The Sun Devil community, known for its strong support of athletics, looks forward to a new era of hockey under Hakstol’s leadership.
Original reporting: azfamily KTVK/KPHO Phoenix (news) — read the source article.
