Ron Francis steps down as Seattle Kraken president of hockey operations

The Seattle Kraken announced that Ron Francis, their president of hockey operations, will step down from his role at the end of the season. The decision was mutually agreed upon, marking the end of Francis’s seven-year tenure with the expansion franchise. Hired in 2019 as the team’s first general manager, Francis played a pivotal role in launching the Kraken ahead of their 2021 debut.[1][2]

Francis reflected on his time with the organization in a statement, saying, “It has been an honor to help launch and lead the Seattle Kraken over the past seven years. I am proud of the culture we built, the people we brought together, and the milestones we achieved, including our historic first playoff run.”

Francis’s journey with the Kraken

Ron Francis joined the Kraken in 2019, tasked with building the team from scratch. He oversaw the expansion draft in 2021, navigating new NHL rules that proved tougher than those faced by the Vegas Golden Knights four years earlier. While Vegas hit the ground running, Seattle took time to gel.

Under Francis’s leadership as GM, the Kraken made their only playoff appearance in 2022-23. They stunned the Colorado Avalanche in a seven-game series before advancing to the Western Conference second round. That run remains a highlight in the franchise’s brief history.

Last April, Francis transitioned to president of hockey operations. Jason Botterill stepped in as executive VP and general manager, handling more day-to-day duties. This shift allowed Francis to focus on broader strategy, though the team struggled to replicate early success.

The front office built a foundation of draft picks and prospects, as noted by Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke. Leiweke praised Francis as “hockey royalty,” referencing his Hall of Fame playing career with two Stanley Cups alongside the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Francis’s executive experience prior to Seattle included eight years with the Carolina Hurricanes. He served as director of hockey operations and then GM from 2014 to 2018, though the team missed playoffs during that span.

The upcoming transition

Multiple sources indicate Jason Botterill will assume full control of hockey operations once Francis departs next week. Botterill, who joined as assistant GM, brings familiarity with the organization.

Leiweke stated, “Ron and I agreed that this is the right moment to make a thoughtful transition for both Ron and the organization, and move in a new direction.” He highlighted the strong prospect pool left behind.

This change comes amid a challenging season for Seattle. The timing suggests a strategic pivot as the franchise eyes long-term contention.

Botterill’s promotion aligns with recent front-office adjustments. For more on Kraken leadership shifts, check this overview.

Kraken’s 2025-26 season struggles

Seattle sits at 32-34-11 through 77 games, fighting slim playoff hopes.[3] A win streak is needed, but Thursday’s games could eliminate them mathematically.

Key challenges include inconsistent scoring and defensive lapses. Despite promising young talent, the team has hovered near the Pacific Division bottom.

Notable performers include recent draft picks contributing depth. However, injuries and trades haven’t yielded the boost needed.

Compared to their 2022-23 success, this year echoes early expansion pains:

• Playoff drought: Four of five seasons without postseason.
• Win total: Down from 46 wins in breakout year.
• Points pace: On track for mid-80s, missing wild card.

Fans remain supportive, filling Climate Pledge Arena. For full stats, see the Kraken schedule.

Building a legacy in Seattle

Francis leaves with a mixed record but undeniable impact. His expansion draft assembled a competitive core, even if immediate success eluded them.

Beyond hockey ops, he fostered a winning culture. Milestones like the playoff upset over Colorado showcased potential.

His playing pedigree—1,691 points, Hall of Fame induction—lent credibility from day one. Penguins fans recall his clutch contributions to Cups in 1991 and 1992.

In Carolina, he laid groundwork despite no playoffs. Seattle represented a fresh start, free from prior baggage.

Critics point to missed opportunities in free agency and trades. Yet, the prospect pipeline promises contention soon.

Looking ahead for the Kraken

Jason Botterill inherits a team with cap flexibility and youth. Offseason moves could accelerate retooling.

Francis’s departure signals evolution, not crisis. The foundation he built positions Seattle for Western Conference relevance.

Fans can take heart in the organization’s stability under Leiweke. With prospects maturing, brighter days loom.

As the Kraken wrap the season, attention turns to draft and free agency. Botterill’s vision will shape the next chapter—what it means for playoffs remains the key question.