Dave Hakstol joins the Colorado Avalanche as the newest assistant coach, bringing an elite level of hockey experience to an already formidable NHL franchise. This major addition highlights Colorado’s dedication to building the most effective and strategic coaching staff in the league, ready to guide the Avalanche to new heights in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Veteran NHL Experience and Leadership
Hakstol arrives with a reputation built on years of excellence in the NHL. He most recently served as the first head coach of the Seattle Kraken, leading the franchise from 2021 to 2024. Under his leadership, the Kraken posted a 100-point season, clinched a Wild Card spot, and advanced to the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. His performance earned him a nomination as a finalist for the Jack Adams Award, reflecting his skill in transforming new teams into playoff contenders.
Hakstol’s coaching resume also includes time as assistant coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he helped drive the team’s offense to top NHL rankings in goals and power play efficiency, and as head coach for the Philadelphia Flyers, guiding the team to two postseason berths with a 134-101-42 record.
Proven Success in Collegiate and International Hockey
Before his NHL career, Hakstol achieved legendary status at the University of North Dakota, where he spent 11 seasons as head coach. He led the Fighting Hawks to seven Frozen Four appearances, secured four conference playoff championships, and was twice named Conference Coach of the Year. His player development and program-building skills remain a gold standard in college hockey.
Hakstol’s international experience is equally impressive. As an assistant coach for Team Canada, he contributed to two IIHF World Championship silver medals (2017 and 2019), working with world-class athletes like Nathan MacKinnon and Mackenzie Blackwood.
Colorado’s Commitment to Excellence
Avalanche General Manager Chris MacFarland describes Hakstol as a perfect fit for Head Coach Jared Bednar’s staff. With his deep NHL and international experience, Hakstol will work alongside Nolan Pratt, Goaltending Coach Jussi Parkkila, and Video Coach Brett Heimlich, making the Avalanche’s coaching staff one of the most respected in the league.
Hakstol himself has expressed excitement about joining Colorado, calling the organization “proud, talented, and driven,” and stating that he looks forward to contributing to the Avalanche’s continued success.
Key Achievements of Dave Hakstol
| Career Milestone | Team/Level | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| NHL Head Coach | Seattle Kraken, Philadelphia Flyers | Stanley Cup Playoffs, Jack Adams Award finalist |
| NHL Assistant Coach | Toronto Maple Leafs | Top offense, postseason appearances |
| College Head Coach | University of North Dakota | 7 Frozen Fours, 4 conference playoff titles |
| International Coaching | Team Canada | IIHF World Championship silver medals (2017, 2019) |
| Player/GM Experience | Sioux City Musketeers, IHL Teams | USHL head coach & GM, IHL player |
Why This Matters for Avalanche Fans
Dave Hakstol’s arrival represents more than just a coaching change. It’s a statement of intent: Colorado is determined to leverage top-tier coaching talent in pursuit of further Stanley Cup glory. With a focus on player development, tactical innovation, and winning culture, the Avalanche are set to remain one of the NHL’s elite teams.
Stay Updated
For official updates and in-depth team coverage, visit the Colorado Avalanche page on NHL.com.
