> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.emeraldcityspectrum.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Major Domino Falls: Kraken and Ron Francis Part Ways as Franchise Seeks ‘New Direction’ - URL: https://www.emeraldcityspectrum.com/major-domino-falls-seattle-kraken-ron-francis-part-ways/ - Published: 2026-04-09T17:53:02.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-08T05:56:01.000Z - Author: Nick Lee - Tags: Analysis, Ron Francis, Jason Botterill, NHL Draft, Kraken Ron Francis will be stepping down as the Seattle Kraken’s president of hockey operations at the end of the 2025-26 regular season, which will conclude on April 16\. The move was announced by the team on Wednesday, described as a mutual agreement between Francis and Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke. It is not a firing, as both sides framed it as the right time for a “thoughtful transition” and a chance for the organization to “move in a new direction.” Francis, 63, had been with the Kraken since July 2019 as the franchise’s very first general manager. He built the team from scratch, overseeing the expansion draft, hiring the first coach, setting up the AHL affiliate, and navigating the team launch amid the COVID era. He deserves credit for helping get this franchise off the ground. However, five seasons into the franchise’s existence, it’s clear major changes are needed. The organization has been spinning its tires in mud for several years, having only made the postseason once in franchise history, with the lone appearance now three full seasons ago. Under Francis, the franchise’s record sits at 174-187-44, with just one winning season to show for it. Mired in mediocrity and seeming to be directionless, Seattle needed a change. Even though this is not a firing, this does seem to be a necessary domino to fall to push for better results. This comes as the Kraken, who once held a playoff position, have been in an ugly tailspin since the Olympic break, possessing one of the worst records in the entire NHL since that break. General manager Jason Botterill was elevated to general manager last year. Now Botterill, 49, will assume full leadership of hockey operations as executive vice president and GM. The biggest difference now is that it’s all on Botterill. His moves have been mostly uninspiring as general manager, except for the trade of Bobby McMann at the deadline. If the Kraken can find a way to extend McMann beyond this season when his contract expires, that will be a nice feather in his cap to kick off this somewhat new era. Botterill hired head coach Lane Lambert. As of now, Lambert is still the head coach. That may stay that way as the Kraken try to retool and have another go in 2026-2027\. At times during this season, it appeared as if Lambert was flummoxed by his own team, despite his best efforts. Botterill has previously talked about using free agency, trades, buyouts, and internal development to improve the roster. It’s time for that to happen and no longer be characterized as empty words. This doesn’t need to be a years-long rebuild. The Kraken have eight draft picks in the upcoming draft, including two first rounders. Whether it be with an injection of young talent or via trade, this could turn around quickly if the right moves are made. Again, re-signing McMann needs to be a priority to salvage any kind of momentum they created this season. The Kraken's offense this year was so anemic, it made the Seattle winter weather look exciting. That needs to improve quickly. It seems the Kraken are on a path of change, likely for the better. But now, those in charge have to capitalize on the opportunity presented to get the franchise on the right track towards sustained winning.