Dave Hakstol Takes Over at Arizona State: Experience, Expectations and a New Chapter
By Andrew Trimble | The Hockey Focus
Arizona State has turned to an experienced college and NHL coach to lead its hockey program. On October 15, the Sun Devils announced the hiring of Dave Hakstol, who arrives from the Colorado Avalanche, where he served as an assistant coach. His appointment brings a familiar name back to college hockey during a difficult transition for ASU.
Hakstol’s college record explains the appeal. During 11 seasons leading North Dakota, he compiled a 289–143–43 record, reached the NCAA Tournament every year and advanced to seven Frozen Fours. He later became head coach of the Philadelphia Flyers and the Seattle Kraken, guiding both organizations to playoff appearances.
For Arizona State, the potential value goes beyond having an NHL résumé behind the bench. From a coaching perspective, Hakstol brings experience managing the daily demands of a college program and preparing players for professional hockey. Those are different responsibilities, and success requires understanding both.
College players need clear expectations, consistent feedback and a development plan they can understand. A coach’s experience becomes valuable when it translates into better practices, stronger habits and greater confidence throughout the roster.
The circumstances surrounding this change also deserve care. ASU announced that it mutually agreed to part ways with longtime coach Greg Powers. The transition comes amid an investigation into the August 20 workout during which defenseman Matthew Mayich collapsed. That investigation remains a separate and essential matter, and a coaching change should not be mistaken for its resolution.
For the players, the immediate challenge is continuing a season while navigating significant uncertainty. In my view, Hakstol’s first responsibility is establishing trust: listening, communicating clearly and creating an environment where players feel comfortable raising concerns. Competitive standards and player well-being must support each other.
ASU also announced that Matt Greene would join the staff as an assistant coach, while Jimmy Mullin would remain. That combination offers incoming experience alongside some continuity for the current roster.
There was an encouraging result in Hakstol’s debut. Arizona State defeated UMass Lowell 5–4 on October 16, with freshman Lukas Sawchyn scoring the winning goal with 2:23 remaining in regulation. It was Hakstol’s first collegiate victory since March 2015. One game cannot define a coaching tenure, but it gave the team a positive opening result.
Looking ahead, I would judge this hiring through the everyday details. Are players improving? Do they understand their roles? Does the team respond constructively to mistakes? Are expectations consistent, and are concerns heard?
Hakstol’s record gives Arizona State reasons for optimism. The work now is turning that experience into a program where players can develop, compete and trust the people leading them. Our thoughts remain with Matthew Mayich, his family and everyone affected.
