Fargo Valley City, ND, October 12, 2026 — Dave Hakstol, an assistant coach with the National Hockey League’s Colorado Avalanche, is reportedly a leading candidate for the head hockey coaching position at Arizona State University (ASU). Sources indicate that Hakstol is in discussions with the university regarding the role.

The university has also reportedly communicated with other potential candidates, informing them that they are no longer being considered for the position. This suggests a narrowing focus on a particular individual or individuals for the upcoming coaching tenure.

Specific details regarding the nature of the discussions, including potential terms of an agreement or a timeline for a decision, were not immediately available. The contractor’s name, referring to the university’s recruitment or search firm, was not provided.

Hakstol brings extensive coaching experience to the table. Prior to his current role with the Avalanche, he served as the head coach for the University of North Dakota men’s hockey program from 2015 to 2020. He also had a prior stint as head coach of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes from 2018 to 2019. His coaching career also includes significant time at Colgate University.

The Colorado Avalanche have not made an official statement regarding Hakstol’s reported discussions with Arizona State. Similarly, Arizona State University has not publicly confirmed any ongoing negotiations or made an announcement about their next head hockey coach.

The development comes as Arizona State’s hockey program continues to establish its presence in NCAA Division I hockey. The team previously competed as an independent before joining Hockey East for the 2023-24 season. The identity of the previous head coach and any circumstances surrounding their departure were not provided.


Story summarized from the original created by Brad Elliott Schlossman on www.inforum.com, see more information here.

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