Kraken hire Jason Botterill as assistant GM

The Seattle Kraken hired Jason Botterill to be an assistant general manager to GM Ron Francis and Norm Maciver as director of player personnel, the organization announced Tuesday.

Botterill was the general manager of the Buffalo Sabres for the past three years before being fired in June. The team didn't make the postseason during his tenure. However, Botterill was previously an extremely successful assistant GM for 10 years with the Pittsburgh Penguins, helping to oversee three Stanley Cups.

"Jason brings a great deal of experience and has worked with some of the best in the business," Francis said. Botterill previously worked alongside the likes of Jim Rutherford, Cliff Fletcher, and Ray Shero.

Botterill will work alongside Rick Olczyk, who was already hired as an assistant general manager, as the organization prepares for the expansion draft on July 21.

"Everyone in hockey is extremely excited about what's happening in Seattle, and I am thrilled for this unique opportunity," Botterill said. "I'm looking forward to working with the diverse and talented group that Ron has assembled."

Maciver spent the last 14 seasons working with the Chicago Blackhawks, during which the club also won three Stanley Cups. He played in 500 NHL games as a defenseman and was a teammate of Francis' for three seasons.

"Norm ... brings a lot of experience and knowledge," Francis said. "I know him from our playing days and am pleased to reunite with him. He will do a fantastic job as we build out our team."