Kraken's Ron Francis to Step Down After Season

The mutually agreed-upon departure comes as the Kraken struggle with a 32-34-11 record, having lost 10 of their last 11 games. They're tied for the fourth-fewest points (75) in the NHL and are facing their third straight season without a playoff appearance.

"Ron and I agreed that this is the right moment to make a thoughtful transition," co-owner Tod Leiweke said. Francis expressed pride in building the franchise culture: "It has been an honor to help launch and lead the Seattle Kraken over the past seven years."