Random Theory: Declan

They introduced a random guy to show that Hayley is trying to move on and not 100% still stuck on Elijah. This is a sign of healthy person. His death by Klaus's hand will put another nail in the coffin to his relationship with Hayley, maybe Hope too. Too bad she will not live long enough to make him pay for what he did.

Alaric had been more present in her life than Declan, Klaus, Elijah, Kol, Marcel Collectively so I think IF and that is a very big IF (since she thinks she knows the best) Hope needs a father figure it will be Alaric not a random guy who meets her over weekends and holidays. Alaric is well balanced familiar with issues of both world, human and supernatural.

BTW if Spin off takes off dont you think there will be a few years time jump once again? Also look at X-men movies. They are all kids. NOne of them have parent authority figure. Charles and the teachers are enough for them. Alaric and Caroline (if she signs up for spin off) will be enough too. Or maybe they will bring more teachers.

I am pretty sure whoever dies this season will stay dead. No resurrections.