The Carolina Hurricanes announced on Apr. 21 that Spiros Anastas has been named head coach of the American Hockey League’s Chicago Wolves. Darren Yorke, Associate General Manager of the Hurricanes and General Manager of the Wolves, said Anastas had demonstrated strong leadership since taking over as interim head coach in December.
The appointment is significant for the organization’s development program, as the Wolves serve as a top affiliate for nurturing young talent. “Since taking the reins in December, Spiros has proven that he is a capable leader for our top developmental team in Chicago,” said Yorke. “His communication style has resonated with our young players and we look forward to watching the Wolves push for a Calder Cup this spring.”
Anastas joined the Wolves’ coaching staff in August 2024 and was promoted to interim head coach on Dec. 12, 2025. Under his leadership, the team achieved a record of 25-14-5-6 over their final 50 games and finished second in their division. The Wolves are set to face off against the Texas Stars in the Central Division Semifinals beginning April 28.
Before joining Chicago, Anastas held coaching roles internationally with Greece and China and worked as a scout for Manitoba Moose. He also coached teams such as Brampton Beast and South Carolina Stingrays at various levels including Canadian Interuniversity Sport with University of Lethbridge, along with experience coaching Serbia, Estonia, and South Korea internationally. In addition to these roles, he won a Calder Cup championship as an assistant coach with Grand Rapids Griffins in 2013.
The Carolina Hurricanes have celebrated notable achievements throughout their history; they recognized players like Eric Staal and Rod Brind’Amour by inducting them into their Hall of Fame according to their official website. The organization also won its first Stanley Cup championship in 2006 according to their official website.
Beyond hockey operations, events hosted by the Hurricanes contribute more than $200 million annually to Raleigh’s local economy through community engagement according to information from Lenovo Center’s official website. The team’s home venue—the Lenovo Center—offers more than 700,000 square feet across multiple seating levels with amenities such as suites and concession stands according to its official website. It can accommodate up to 20,000 people and hosts over 150 events each year according to its official website.
