NHL2 hours ago2 minute read

Dave Hakstol takes over at Arizona State amid player investigation

Dave Hakstol left the NHL to lead Arizona State hockey while an investigation into a player's collapse continues.

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A fresh start at Arizona State

Dave Hakstol left his job as an assistant coach with the Colorado Avalanche to become the head coach at Arizona State. The 58 year old joined the college program on Oct 15.

He takes over a team dealing with a difficult situation. Defenseman Matthew Mayich collapsed during an outdoor workout on Aug 20. He remains in the hospital and is unlikely to recover from external heat stroke that reduced oxygen flow to his brain.

Former head coach Greg Powers was present at that workout. He was placed on administrative leave and agreed to step down when Hakstol arrived. An independent review led by former Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Scott Bales is expected to be finished by early December.

Decades of coaching experience

Hakstol brings over three decades of coaching experience from the NHL and college ranks. He spent 11 seasons leading North Dakota, reaching the Frozen Four seven times.

In the NHL, Hakstol coached the Philadelphia Flyers from 2015 to 2018 and the Seattle Kraken from 2021 to 2024. He also served two stints as an assistant with the Toronto Maple Leafs and coached the Sioux City Musketeers from 1996 to 2000.

Arizona State athletic director Graham Rossini called it an excellent opportunity for student athletes to learn from someone who understands the college experience and the path to professional hockey.

Hakstol met with players individually to discuss their concerns. He joined the Sun Devils for an Oct 16 to 17 series at UMass Lowell and held a mini training camp. The team now prepares for its National Collegiate Hockey Conference opener against St. Cloud State on Friday. Hakstol said the players have done a great job bringing focus to the rink and simply want to be coached.

What it means for the next game

Montreal Canadiens at Dallas Stars (NHL, Fri, 30 Oct): Dallas Stars win 44%, Montreal Canadiens win 56%; projected score Dallas Stars 3, Montreal Canadiens 3. Our safest pick: Over 4 goals.

Columbus Blue Jackets at Dallas Stars (NHL, Sun, 01 Nov): Dallas Stars win 55%, Columbus Blue Jackets win 45%; projected score Dallas Stars 3, Columbus Blue Jackets 2. Our safest pick: Under 7 goals.