Avalanche Add Hakstol to Coaching Staff
Former Kraken Head Coach Joins **Jared Bednar**’s Bench
The Colorado Avalanche have bolstered their coaching ranks, bringing in **Dave Hakstol** as an assistant. The move adds significant NHL experience to support Head Coach **Jared Bednar** and his staff as they aim for another deep playoff run.
Key Addition
**Hakstol** will work alongside current assistant **Nolan Pratt**, Goaltending Coach **Jussi Parkkila**, and Assistant/Video Coach **Brett Heimlich**. General Manager **Chris MacFarland** expressed confidence in the hire.
Dave brings a wealth of knowledge and experience behind the bench and will be a great fit on Jared’s staff,”—Chris MacFarland, Avalanche General Manager
**MacFarland** further stated that **Hakstol**’s successful and extensive coaching background makes him a valuable addition.
In a parallel move highlighting coaching demand, the New Jersey Devils recently named Sheldon Keefe as their new head coach, just weeks after his departure from the Toronto Maple Leafs (ESPN).
Hakstol’s Perspective
**Hakstol** conveyed his enthusiasm for joining the Avalanche organization.
I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the Avalanche,”—Dave Hakstol
He added that he looks forward to collaborating with the talented players and the established coaching staff led by **Bednar**. He and his family are also eager to become part of the Colorado community.
NHL Experience
**Hakstol**, 56, was most recently the inaugural Head Coach of the Seattle Kraken from 2021-24, leading them to a 107-112-27 record. The Kraken reached the Second Round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2022-23 after a 100-point season, earning **Hakstol** a Jack Adams Award nomination.
Before Seattle, **Hakstol** served as an assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs (2019-21) and as Head Coach of the Philadelphia Flyers (2015-19), guiding them to two playoff appearances.
Collegiate Career
Prior to his NHL career, **Hakstol** spent 15 seasons coaching at the University of North Dakota, including 11 seasons as Head Coach (2004-15). He led North Dakota to a 289-143-43 record, seven Frozen Four appearances, four conference playoff championships, and three regular-season titles. He was twice named his conference’s Coach of the Year.
Early Career and International Stage
Before North Dakota, **Hakstol** coached the Sioux City Musketeers (USHL) from 1996-2000. As a player, he spent five seasons in the IHL with the Minnesota Moose and Indianapolis Ice. He played defense for North Dakota (1989-92) and captained the team in his final two seasons.
Internationally, **Hakstol** has twice won a silver medal as an assistant for Team Canada at the IIHF World Championship in 2017 and 2019. **Nathan MacKinnon** and **Mackenzie Blackwood** were on those teams, respectively.
