Doug Wilson steps down as San Jose Sharks GM

Wilson has been on a leave of absence with the team since November 2021, with Joe Will taking over as interim GM. Will shall continue in the role as the team begins a search for a permanent replacement.

“I want to thank everyone who has reached out during my leave of absence,” said Wilson in the statement released with the announcement. “While I have made great progress over the last several months, I feel it is in the best interest of the organization and myself to step down from my current duties and focus on my health and full recovery. I look forward to continuing my career in the NHL in the future.”

Wilson joined the Sharks organization as the director of pro development in 1997-98 after playing his final two NHL seasons with the team, and then was promoted to general manager in 2003. He then went on to create long term success for the team, with the Sharks’ 760 wins being the third most since he started in 2003. He also led the Sharks to the playoffs in 14 of his 18 seasons at the helm, including 10 straight from 2004 to 2014. The Sharks also appeared in the second most playoff rounds during his tenure, playing in 30 series.

“These past 19 years serving as general manager of the San Jose Sharks have been a privilege and one of the most fulfilling and enjoyable periods of my life,” said Wilson. “I have been incredibly fortunate to work for and with some of the most talented and passionate people in the game of hockey.”

Wilson was inducted into the Hall of Fame in November as part of the 2020 class for his playing career. In 1,024 games with the Chicago Blackhawks and the Sharks, he tallied 237 goals and 827 points. He won the Norris Trophy for best defenseman in 1981-82, a season in which he put up 39 goals and 85 points in 76 games.

Will, team owner Hasso Plattner and team president Jonathan Becher will lead the search for a new GM. They haven’t stated a timeline for hiring at this point but expressed that they won’t rush into it and will only make one when they find the candidate they want.