Adler Mannheim's Shift in Management: Eakins Takes the Helm
Facing a sporting slump in the German Ice Hockey League (DEL), Adler Mannheim made a drastic move. On Monday, the club announced the release of coach Johan Lundskog, his assistant Jeff Hill, and sporting director Jan-Axel Alavaara. Daniel Hopp, the club boss, stated, "Recent developments have compelled us to reassess and act. I am confident that a fresh start at the sporting leadership will get us back on track to success."
Dallas Eakins, an American-born coach with a notable background in North American professional hockey, was introduced as the new head coach and sporting director for Adler Mannheim. Eakins previously led the Anaheim Ducks in the NHL for four seasons.
Adler Mannheim, a formidable eight-time champion, had set its sights on the title but stumbled, slipping to eighth place in the league table. In the Champions League, despite a strong regular season, the team fell short in the round of 16 to the Rapperswil-Jona Lakers from Switzerland.
Lundskog, who joined Mannheim prior to the 2021-2022 season, often struggled with a full squad due to injuries. Despite some recent positive results, they remained elusive. Alavaara, a mainstay since 2018, only extended his contract until 2026 in October.
In light of Adler Mannheim's slip to eighth place in the DEL and the Champions League's round of 16 elimination, the team opted to overhaul its management. Dallas Eakins, well-known for his tenure with the Anaheim Ducks, now steps up to lead Adler Mannheim as both head coach and sporting director, replacing Lundskog and Hill.
Although sources do not detail Eakins' record with Adler Mannheim, nor confirm his role as a direct replacement for Lundskog and Hill, further investigation into sports news websites, team official websites, or comprehensive sports databases could provide a clearer picture.
