In a significant development for Arizona State University’s hockey program, veteran NHL coach Dave Hakstol has been appointed as the new head coach. This decision follows the resignation of former head coach Greg Powers, who stepped down amid an ongoing investigation into an outdoor workout incident that left 21-year-old player Matthew Mayich on life support due to external heat stroke. Hakstol, 58, brings a wealth of experience, having served as head coach for both the Philadelphia Flyers and Seattle Kraken, as well as a long-term coach at the University of North Dakota, where he led the team to seven Frozen Four appearances. Most recently, he was an assistant coach with the Colorado Avalanche. Arizona State has enlisted former State Supreme Court Chief Justice Scott Bales to conduct an independent review of the August 20 incident, expected by early December. The Mayich family, through attorney Rob Carey, emphasized the importance of transparency and the protection of whistleblowers. Powers’s resignation should not hinder the investigation or participant cooperation. Brett McLean has been hired as an assistant coach to replace Hakstol on the Avalanche’s staff. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/503c57f2366178b48ededa376476745c?utm_source=openai))
In NHL action, the New York Rangers secured a decisive 4-1 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Alexis Lafrenière was the standout performer, scoring twice and contributing to the team’s fifth consecutive home win. Goalie Dylan Garand made 25 saves, further solidifying the Rangers’ strong start to the season. ([abcnews.com](https://abcnews.com/Sports/wireStory/alexis-lafreniere-scores-rangers-beat-lightning-4-1-137245103?utm_source=openai))
In other notable games, the Carolina Hurricanes extended their winning streak to six games by defeating the Washington Capitals 4-2. Andrei Svechnikov was instrumental in the victory, scoring two goals and providing an assist. ([frontend.d3.nhle.com](https://frontend.d3.nhle.com/news/washington-capitals-carolina-hurricanes-game-recap-october-13-2026?utm_source=openai))
In the American Hockey League (AHL), the Colorado Eagles faced the San Jose Barracuda in a closely contested match. The Eagles emerged victorious with a 3-2 win, showcasing the depth of talent in the league. ([sport365.com](https://www.sport365.com/hockey/2026-10-20?utm_source=openai))
Looking ahead, the NHL schedule features several exciting matchups. The Colorado Avalanche will face the New Jersey Devils, the Los Angeles Kings will take on the Washington Capitals, and the Anaheim Ducks will visit the New York Islanders. Fans can anticipate high-intensity games as teams continue to vie for early-season positioning. ([sport365.com](https://www.sport365.com/hockey/2026-10-20?utm_source=openai))
As the season progresses, teams are expected to refine their strategies and lineups. Fans can look forward to more thrilling games and standout performances in the coming weeks. ([sport365.com](https://www.sport365.com/hockey/2026-10-20?utm_source=openai))
