It sure sounds like former New York Rangers GM Jeff Gorton is about to be hired in some capacity by the Montreal Canadiens.
Multiple reports indicate that Marc Bergevin’s run as general manager is done. Also, in the aftermath of the news, Habs assistant GM Scott Mellanby has resigned.
The Habs are 6-15-2 this season and very likely not making the playoffs after a miracle run to the Finals last season.
“They do have permission to talk to Gorton. I’ve been told he’s not going to be the GM, so don’t say he’s going to be GM,” Elliotte Friedman said of the situation. “But it’s possible he could be president of hockey ops or something along that role. Whatever the case is, it appears as if major changes are coming in Montreal and I think Jeff Gorton’s going to be a pretty big part of that.”
Gorton took over as the Rangers full time GM in July of 2015. He ushered in the biggest change in franchise history when they finally did the unthinkable in New York – announced a rebuild.
Aside from key moves like acquiring Mika Zibanejad and Adam Fox for basically songs, he took a barren prospect pipeline and stocked it with some high-end talent. Getting lucky by winning the lottery aside, Gorton is considered one of the best executives in the game today.
More later tonight, but hearing Montreal has permission to talk to former NYR Jeff Gorton. Do not believe this is for the GM position, but another role. We will see how it develops.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) November 27, 2021
The New York Rangers were scheduled to host the Islanders today but the game has been postponed due to an 8th positive case for the Isles. Gerard Gallant’s charges next game will be against the Flyers at MSG on December 1st.
Here’s which Blueshirts are nearing key milestones.
Recent milestones reached:
Notable achievement:
The Rangers hit the 20 game mark against the Bruins on Friday. With the win, it’s their best 20 game start since the 2016-17 season (14-5-1). Gallant also became the second highest point getter for a Blueshirts coach in his first 20 games (Phil Esposito is first with a 15-5-0 for 30 points in 1986-87).
*All Stats and Info courtesy New York Rangers
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