Seattle Kraken Restructure Front Office, Replace GM Francis

The Seattle Kraken have announced significant leadership changes following another missed Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance. Ron Francis, the team's inaugural general manager, has been promoted to President of Hockey Operations, while Jason Botterill, formerly an assistant GM and ex-Sabres GM, will take over as general manager and executive vice president. Botterill will immediately lead the search for a new head coach after the organization parted ways with Dan Bylsma, who served just one season behind the bench. Ownership and team leadership expressed that the restructuring is aimed at building a sustained playoff contender, with Francis focusing on long-term vision and Botterill empowered to manage day-to-day hockey operations. The move mirrors succession strategies seen in other NHL expansion teams, such as the Vegas Golden Knights. Assistant coach Jessica Campbell, noted for breaking barriers as the first woman full-time behind an NHL bench, will be retained.