© Dave Sandford/NHLI

On Wednesday, the Edmonton Oilers appointed Stan Bowman as their new general manager.

After Ken Holland’s five-year contract expired on July 1, the 51-year-old has taken over his position. Throughout Holland’s tenure as GM and president of hockey operations since May 7, 2019, the Oilers managed to qualify for the Stanley Cup Playoffs each season. Last season, Edmonton (49-27-6) secured second place in the Pacific Division and made it to Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, but unfortunately suffered a 2-1 defeat against the Florida Panthers.

“We are thrilled and delighted to have Stan joining the Edmonton Oilers,” expressed Jeff Jackson, CEO of hockey operations in Edmonton. “His extensive expertise and demonstrated accomplishments in this position, coupled with his significant contributions beyond the game, align perfectly with our aim of attaining excellence in every aspect of our organization. Our numerous discussions have revealed a shared vision for our team’s current standing and the necessary steps to secure another Stanley Cup championship.”

On June 27, Jackson expressed his lack of interest in assuming the GM role permanently and announced that he would initiate the interviewing process for potential candidates without delay.

The NHL reinstated the ex-Chicago Blackhawks GM on July 1, stating that their response in 2010 to allegations of assault against video coach resulted in inadequacy. This decision followed the incident involving Kyle Beach, a player for the Chicago Blackhawks.

In 2010, Bowman held the position of Blackhawks GM until his resignation as Chicago’s president of hockey operations and GM on October 27, 2021. Similarly, Al MacIsaac, who served as assistant GM in 2010, was terminated on the very same day.

During his tenure as GM from 2009 to 2021, Bowman led Chicago to three Stanley Cup victories (2010, 2013, 2015), with an impressive overall record of 493 wins, 310 losses, and 109 ties.

Teams were allowed to engage in discussions about potential employment opportunities with Bowman starting from July 1. However, they were not permitted to establish new employment relationships with Bowman, MacIsaac, or former coach Joel Quenneville, who were also under suspension, until July 10.

The NHL stated on July 1 that although their initial responses were unacceptable, all three individuals have acknowledged this and have taken time away from the game to engage in activities that show sincere remorse for their actions. They have also demonstrated a greater awareness of the responsibilities that all NHL personnel, especially those in leadership positions, hold. Additionally, they have made significant progress in their personal growth by participating in various programs that emphasize the importance of effectively and meaningfully addressing allegations of abuse.

The League anticipates maintaining this dedication in any future role with the NHL and/or any of our Clubs.