NHL News: Kraken no rush to name a coach, Blackhawks outreach to Native Americans, and more
Anthony Scultore
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There’s still plenty of time before the Expansion Draft in 2021, and Ron Francis is in no rush to name a head coach. The Seattle Kraken General Manager is poised and composed. He knows until a team is constructed you don’t know what kind of a coach you need.
NHL News: Ron Francis on Seattle Kraken coach search
In a recent report, Francis explained the current state of the Kraken.
“We don’t know yet the kind of team we may be able to draft, so we’re comfortable kind of sitting back and waiting right now and watching what happens here,” general manager Ron Francis told The Athletic on Friday. “There’s still, hopefully, a 2020-21 season getting up and running and playing. Are there guys that end up losing their jobs or looking for other things elsewhere? I just think we have time on this. We’re not in a race to make that decision at this point.”
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Seattle will be under pressure to produce results similar to what Vegas did when they first came into the NHL. Of course, many teams were not as prepared as they are now. We likely will not see teams making crazy trades to avoid Seattle picking a player they were unable to protect.
NHL News: Chicago Blackhawks backing up their promise to Native Americans
Back in July, the Chicago Blackhawks, a historic Original Six franchise released a statement to the Chicago Sun Times that they will not be changing their name.
‘‘The Chicago Blackhawks name and logo symbolizes an important and historic person, Black Hawk of Illinois’ Sac & Fox Nation,” the statement began. “[Black Hawks’] leadership and life has inspired generations of Native Americans, veterans and the public.’’
The Chicago Blackhawks concluded their statement with a resolve to move forward. “We will continue to serve as stewards of our name and identity and will do so with a commitment to evolve,” they explained. “Our endeavors in this area have been sincere and multifaceted, and the path forward will draw on that experience to grow as an organization and expand our efforts.’’
Yesterday to kick off Native American Heritage Month, the Blackhawks released another statement to back up their prior commitment.
In it they remarked they will be working with Native partners in educating staff, fans and local community on the history of Black Hawk. “We will also continue to expand our investments in Native individuals and communities. Through these initiatives, we endeavour to build a community that is informed and respectful of Native American people and their culture.”
One of those efforts will be reading a Land Acknowledgement statement prior to every game. It recognizes the relationship between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories and is an opportunity to express appreciation for the land the event is taking place on.
Other NHL News
Dominik Kahun, formerly with the Buffalo Sabres has signed a one-year deal with the Edmonton Oilers.