After many head coaches have found new homes, one general manager stays put right where he is. General Manager Ron Francis has a contract extension to remain with the Seattle Kraken. The second-year expansion team took significant strides this season.
Trending in the right direction 📈
The #SeaKraken have extended General Manager @RonFrancis10 through the 2026-27 season → https://t.co/3RyFjkB16M pic.twitter.com/AvKzKZHEEF
— Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) May 31, 2023
Francis Remains With Kraken As General Manager
It is never easy taking on an expansion team and overseeing the entire process. There was much criticism about his expansion draft, but seeing the plan unfold tells a different story. General Manager Ron Francis has remarkably improved this franchise in its second year. A disastrous first year with much to be desired saw the franchise land the fourth overall pick. Their prize was Shane Wright.
Fast forward a year, and the franchise had the most significant point differential of any expansion team in league history. In addition, the club knocked off the defending champions in the first round. The second round was their stopping point as they were eliminated by the Dallas Stars in Game Seven. General manager Ron Francis deserves all the praise. His tenure with Seattle is going better than the one in Carolina.
Looking Ahead For Francis And Co.
General Manager made the right moves. Dave Hakstol was worthy of being named head coach and is in the running for Jack Adams this season. In addition, drafting Matty Beniers and Shane Wright as building blocks will go a long way. Not to mention to trades he swung for Oliver Bjorkstrand and a list of free-agent signings. The team took huge strides in its second season and all because of what he orchestrated up top. Seattle is going to be fun to watch for a long time and this is only the beginning. Now the real work is underway with a crucial offseason. The list of free agents is lengthy.
Main Photo: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
