Dave Hakstol, Arizona State in discussions about head coaching position

Dave Hakstol is in talks to take on the head coaching position at Arizona State University's ice hockey team. The assistant coach for the Colorado Avalanche has been given the green light to discuss the opportunity with the Sun Devils. Once Arizona State is no longer considering other candidates, they will move forward with Hakstol.

Currently based in Dallas with the Avalanche, Hakstol was recently in the arena for a practice session. The school is searching for an interim coach to replace Greg Powers, who was placed on paid administrative leave on September 30 while the university investigates a dangerous incident involving defenseman Matthew Mayich. It remains uncertain whether Arizona State will offer Hakstol a permanent position or an interim role.

The interim coach will be responsible for selecting their coaching staff. The Sun Devils face UMass Lowell this weekend, where they are currently 2-2, splitting their season opener with Lindenwood and Holy Cross. Mike Corbett is serving as the acting head coach. Hakstol previously led the University of North Dakota to seven NCAA Frozen Four appearances over his eleven seasons as head coach from 2004-15.

Prior to his time in the NHL, he coached the Philadelphia Flyers, Seattle Kraken, Toronto Maple Leafs, and served as an assistant for the Avalanche. Hakstol was a finalist for the Jack Adams Award as NHL Coach of the Year during his tenure with Seattle, guiding the team to a close victory in the Western Conference Final.