The Vancouver Canucks' quest for a new general manager is advancing to the next stage, as the team transitions from virtual meetings to in-person interviews. After nearly two weeks of Zoom conversations, select candidates are now being invited to Vancouver for face-to-face discussions.
Key Candidates in the Running
A source confirmed to Postmedia that the NHL team's search is entering its final phase. Among those advancing are Shane Doan, former special adviser to the Toronto Maple Leafs' general manager, and Evan Gold, an assistant general manager with the Boston Bruins. Also under consideration is Canucks assistant GM Ryan Johnson, who received praise from president of hockey operations Jim Rutherford at last month's end-of-season press conference.
Other potential candidates include Boston's Jamie Langenbrunner, Calgary Flames' Brad Pascall, and Tampa Bay Lightning's Jeff Tambellini. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman suggests former Buffalo GM Kevyn Adams and Florida AGM Brent Peterson remain in the mix.
Leadership and Ownership Involvement
The search is led by Rutherford, with chairman Francesco Aquilini and his nephew Dax Aquilini also participating in interviews. Rutherford confirmed the dismissal of previous GM Patrik Allvin on April 19, whom he had hired in January 2022.
Rutherford acknowledged uncertainty about his own future, stating, "I had a lot of thoughts this year about my future. Right now, my focus is on getting a GM and getting through the draft. Then I will think a lot more seriously about what makes sense." He added, "I feel I haven't done as good a job as I would like to. Where I'm at this point in my life I can do what I want. I like this franchise a lot and I want to do what's right for them."
The decision on the new GM is expected to have a significant impact on the franchise's direction moving forward.
