Kings executive Ron Hextall returns to Flyers

Ron Hextall, the legendary Philadelphia Flyers goaltender who performed strongly as Kings vice president/assistant general manager for seven years, is returning to Philadelphia as the team’s assistant general manager/director of hockey operations.

While the move might appear on its surface to be a lateral transition, there is also speculation Hextall, 49, could ultimately replace Flyers GM Paul Holmgren.

“We are very pleased to welcome back Ron Hextall to our management team,” Holmgren said in a statement released by the Flyers. “Ron has a wealth of experience in the front office in various capacities which will be a valuable addition to our staff.”

Under Kings GM Dean Lombardi, Hextall was a highly thought of executive, serving as a liaison to the club’s top minor league team, the Manchester Monarchs.

He served as director of pro hockey personnel for the Flyers from 2002 to 2006 after retirining as a player in 1999.

As a Flyer from 1986 to 1992 and 1994 to 1999, the fiery Hextall played in 489 games, winning 240 in 11 seasons with a 2.91 goals-against average.

His 45 playoff wins are the most by any Flyer. He was inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame in 2008 after leading the team to the 1987 Stanley Cup finals and winning the Vezina and Conn Smythe trophies that season.

The Kings have yet to replace Hextall, a team spokesman said.

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