By Arthur Staple, Chris Johnston, Michael Russo and Scott Powers
For 15 years, the NHL has presented an award recognizing its top general manager. Despite being a significant accolade, the Jim Gregory Award, which honors the league’s GM of the year as chosen by peers, has limitations in evaluating the complete impact of a team’s front office on sustained success.
This award is announced after the second round of the playoffs, and it’s no surprise that the GM of a team among the final four has received the honor almost every season.
Aiming to look beyond the recency bias associated with this time of year, The Athletic conducted a survey among 40 high-ranking league executives—comprising general managers, assistant GMs, senior advisors, and scouting directors from various organizations—to identify the league’s best-run teams.
These executives ranked their top five front offices, with points allocated as follows: 10 for first place, seven for second, five for third, three for fourth, and one for fifth. Anonymity was assured for votes and comments to encourage candidness, with a stipulation that they could not vote for their own teams.
It comes as no surprise that the last four Stanley Cup champions ranked in the top six of our survey. Notably, the Tampa Bay Lightning may not be at the same high level they enjoyed from 2020 to 2022 but continue to be a well-managed organization that strives hard each season to remain competitive.
Among our 40 respondents, teams showing active engagement in trades and free agency typically received the most favorable opinions. However, the ultimate victory went to a team that has not engaged in many major moves and has yet to secure a Cup this century.
Total points: 251 (17 first-place votes, appeared on 36 ballots)
Owner: Tom Gaglardi
President and CEO: Brad Alberts
GM: Jim Nill
When a team receives nearly half of the first-place votes, it suggests a dynasty. Although the Stars have made it to the Western Conference final three out of the last five years and lost the 2020 Cup Final, they do not fit the typical dynasty mold. Over Jim Nill’s 11 seasons as GM, the team has excelled in making strategic draft selections and signings, alongside a development system that may have surpassed Tampa Bay’s as the NHL’s benchmark.
In the past decade, the Stars have drafted higher than 12th only once, yet their roster is rich with homegrown talent. That single high draft pick, Miro Heiskanen (No. 3 overall in 2017), could be the most underrated player in the league.
Another key aspect of Nill’s front office is how he interacts with fellow executives. Integrity holds significant value in this league.
“Everything they do is correct and intelligent,” remarked one senior advisor. “A lot is about relationships because Jim may be the most esteemed GM in the league.”
<p“Jim is a reserved individual,” another GM noted. “It’s rare to see much about him in the media, but at the draft, I noticed his table was surrounded by so many talented people. Each one of them is a competent hockey professional.”
“You see, no one person can accomplish this job alone. If someone claims otherwise, their ego is too inflated. Jim has no ego. He’s a true gentleman.”
LeBrun: Catching up with Jim Nill on the Stars offseason, Jamie Benn’s future and how Matt Dumba fits on D
2. Tampa Bay Lightning
Total points: 187 (9 first-place votes, appeared on 30 ballots)
Owner: Jeff Vinik (sale in progress to Doug Ostrover)
GM: Julien BriseBois
A team that has won back-to-back Cups and made three consecutive Final appearances in the last five years naturally attracts admiration. In recent seasons, BriseBois and his team have faced several tough decisions to maintain the Lightning’s elite status — one of the hardest being Steven Stamkos’s departure this summer. Yet, contrary to expectations, Tampa Bay has successfully refreshed its lineup and remains competitive.
The rapport between BriseBois and Jon Cooper contributes significantly — they are the longest-tenured GM-coach duo in the league.
“They’ve consistently stayed ahead of their competitors and continue to adapt,” remarked one assistant GM. “They’re unafraid of making mistakes and learning from them. This is why they remain at the forefront.”
“They’re forward-thinking,” noted another AGM. “They leverage their geographical advantages effectively. They’re daring, and their track record reflects that.”
A comment from a GM encapsulates the Lightning’s ethos perfectly: “Winning Cups. That’s our primary goal.”
GO DEEPER
‘You can’t stop him’: Peers see BriseBois as an intense, all-in GM — and pickleball player
Total points: 173 (9 first-place votes, appeared on 26 ballots)
Owner: Vincent Viola
President and CEO: Matt Caldwell
GM and president of hockey operations: Bill Zito
An assistant GM succinctly illustrated the remarkable transformation of the Panthers under Zito and his staff: “It transitioned from a place players avoided to a sought-after destination.”
Since Zito’s hiring before the 2020-21 season, he has led a team with just three playoff appearances in the previous 22 seasons to notable success within four years. His significant moves have been complemented by depth cultivated through smart drafting and strategic signings, which has elevated the Panthers to their current standing.
Successfully managing the early-season departure of Joel Quenneville in the 2021-22 season also played a crucial role. Making wise personnel decisions is key to success in this league, but steering clear of missteps is equally vital.
“There’s some recency bias, but the management team has excelled in discovering undervalued talent (like Gustav Forsling, Carter Verhaeghe, Brandon Montour, Eetu Luostarinen, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and potentially Nate Schmidt) while also executing bold trades,” stated a senior adviser. “They’ve revamped the roster into a championship-caliber team in a remarkably short time.”
“After losing (Joel) Quenneville, promoting (Andrew) Brunette, claiming the Presidents’ Trophy, and subsequently hiring Paul (Maurice) — Billy isn’t hesitant about making tough decisions,” remarked one GM. “He’s also surrounded himself with exceptionally skilled hockey professionals.”
GO DEEPER
Russo: Panthers’ road from ‘shame’ to the Stanley Cup — a comedy of errors with a ’fairytale ending’
Total points: 117 (2 first-place votes, appeared on 21 ballots)
Owner: Bill Foley
President of hockey operations: George McPhee
GM: Kelly McCrimmon
“You either love them or hate them,” remarked one GM, “but they are entirely focused on winning.”
The Vegas franchise was born with an aggressive nature and has maintained that approach for the past seven years. McPhee’s ruthless expansion draft during the summer of 2017 will be remembered for years to come, especially with future expansions on the horizon. McCrimmon took over as GM five years ago, and the Knights have consistently spared no resource or sentiment in their quest for victory, which they achieved two years prior.
Throughout the league, Foley and his veteran front-office team are well understood. While opinions on the Knights’ methods may vary, they have undeniably garnered respect league-wide.
“Since entering the NHL, they seem to have done nearly everything right,” commented one senior advisor. “This is the best-managed club since its inception. Two exceptional executives lead a talented staff under an assertive owner. They consistently make bold, daring decisions and have completely discarded the traditional belief that expansion teams must patiently draft and develop players to succeed.”
“Their readiness to take risks is remarkable,” stated a scouting director. “Yet, they still possess a solid pool of prospects.”
Total points: 87 (2 first-place votes, appeared on 21 ballots)
Owner: Jeremy Jacobs
Team president: Cam Neely
GM: Don Sweeney
Although the Bruins have not clinched the Cup since Sweeney became GM a decade ago, they also have not fallen off the map — a fate that many predicted as the franchise transitioned from the Patrice Bergeron-Zdeno Chara era.
The ongoing contract negotiations with Jeremy Swayman may have influenced some executives’ decisions when we gathered our poll, yet this team has remained prominent during a lengthy transition period.
<p“Year after year, they’ve consistently ranked among the league’s best since Don took charge,” said one GM.
“Boston resembles the Atlanta Braves in some ways,” an assistant GM noted. “They likely should have secured more Stanley Cups during that window, but they have always remained competitive.”
The Bruins have secured a playoff spot for the last nine seasons under the leadership of general manager Don Sweeney, which includes their appearance in the 2019 Stanley Cup Final. (Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Total points: 51 (appeared on 13 ballots)
Owner: Stan Kroenke
President and governor: Josh Kroenke
President of hockey operations: Joe Sakic
GM: Chris MacFarland
The Avalanche transformed a challenging decade from 2008 to 2018 into a remarkable turnaround. Currently, they find themselves in a similar position as the Lightning, striving to balance salary cap challenges with competitive performance. MacFarland is in his third year as general manager, yet he is already well-regarded in the NHL community, having held nearly every front-office role in his 24 years spent with the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Avs.
Dealing with the complexities of Gabriel Landeskog’s injury, the Val Nichushkin suspension, the impending free agency of Mikko Rantanen, and finding a permanent goaltending solution is significant responsibility for a team boasting as much top-tier talent as any in the league.
The absence of playoff success following their 2021-22 Cup victory has lowered their standing in the eyes of many executives, and there is a keen interest in witnessing how Sakic, MacFarland, and the front office navigate these multifaceted issues.
“Chris has worked hard as an assistant GM for many years before achieving this role. He is incredibly intelligent,” one GM noted. “At the conclusion of each season, I review the trades they executed, the players they acquired, and free agents they signed. His success rate is impressive every year. He isn’t reactionary; he carefully considers his options and typically arrives at the correct decision.”
“Excellent drafting. A fantastic core,” a scouting director remarked. “Some improvements in cap management may be necessary, but they are solid.”
Total points: 29 (appeared on 7 ballots)
Owners: David Blitzer and Josh Harris
President of hockey operations and GM: Tom Fitzgerald
The excitement in Newark has been brewing for much of Fitzgerald’s four years in charge, but his actions this past offseason propelled the Devils into a top-10 position on our list.
Finalizing the long-anticipated trade for Jacob Markstrom without sacrificing too much has addressed the Devils’ most pressing positional need, while astute free-agent signings like Brett Pesce and Brenden Dillon have brought experience to a youthful defense. For the Devils to become genuine contenders following a surprising playoff absence in 2023-24, they must build on their solid performance in 2022-23, but Fitzgerald and his team are steering them in a positive direction.
“I admire what New Jersey has accomplished over the last couple of years,” an assistant GM said. “They’ve blended their efforts very well, and what stands out to me is their recognition of the shortcomings they faced this offseason, particularly with goaltending and defensive depth. They’ve managed to improve in these areas to the extent that even a significant injury in either position won’t derail their success, unlike last year when a major injury had a detrimental impact (Dougie Hamilton).”
GO DEEPER
Inside the Devils’ offseason overhaul: How Tom Fitzgerald pulled off one of the NHL’s splashiest summers
Total points: 21 (1 first-place vote, appeared on 6 ballots)
Owner: Tom Dundon
President: Doug Warf
GM: Eric Tulsky
With Don Waddell departing after six years as general manager, there is heightened curiosity about how Tulsky, regarded as one of the sharpest minds in the sport, will manage the role — and his owner. Despite receiving some positive evaluations, it was widely known that Dundon has significant influence over the organization.
Tulsky’s inaugural summer in the GM position proved to be challenging, marked by the departures of key players like Pesce and Brady Skjei, and the inability to retain Jake Guentzel. The Hurricanes remain a top team, largely thanks to coach Rod Brind’Amour, but the question remains: can they finally break through and compete in the Cup Final? Such success would enhance their ranking on this list.
“They operate within a very strict budget, and their staff does an incredible job,” remarked one senior adviser. “I’m curious to see how Eric Tulsky performs, as Donnie Waddell was the only person I know who could effectively manage Tom (Dundon).”
GO DEEPER
Eric Tulsky lays out his vision for the Hurricanes at the start of a ‘complicated offseason’
Total points: 20 (appeared on 8 ballots)
Owner: James Dolan
Team president and GM: Chris Drury
Drury has been instrumental in the front office’s transformation of the team from 2017 to 2021, where he traded away veterans for draft picks and prospects, effectively retooling the franchise. He moved up to GM before the start of the 2021-22 season and has proven to be one of the most aggressive GMs in the league during trade deadlines, achieving two Eastern Conference final appearances within his three seasons.
Perhaps because Drury hasn’t been at the helm long enough, the Rangers find themselves lower on this list than one might expect for a team that has made major changes recently.
“There’s a lot of pressure to perform and no Cup to show for it, but they consistently remain among the top teams,” stated one assistant GM. “They are proactive when opportunities arise to improve the team.”
GO DEEPER
What’s at stake for the Rangers in ’24-25: ‘A little bit of Stanley Cup or bust’
Total points: 17 (appeared on 3 ballots)
Owner: Mike Ilitch
Executive vice president and GM: Steve Yzerman
The Wings have not reached the playoffs since Steve Yzerman succeeded Ken Holland in 2019. However, the high regard in which Detroit is held in our poll highlights the strong foundation Yzerman established in Tampa Bay and his rapport within the league.
This franchise sacrificed its future to maintain a playoff streak that lasted 26 seasons. Consequently, it was well understood that Yzerman had a significant task ahead of him upon his appointment. Yet, it still surprises many that the Red Wings continue to struggle.
“Yzerman faced considerable challenges when he arrived, but I believe they’re on the right path to becoming a very good team,” remarked one general manager.
Steve Yzerman has yet to create a playoff team during his time back in Detroit. (Bruce Bennett / Getty Images)
Also receiving votes
11 (tie). Montreal Canadiens (13 points)
Although executive vice president of hockey operations Jeff Gorton and GM Kent Hughes are relatively new to their positions, they have begun the gradual process of revamping a team filled with promising young talent. “Kent Hughes is straightforward,” noted one assistant GM. “He focuses on his work. I believe they have a solid plan.”
11 (tie). Anaheim Ducks (13 points)
Pat Verbeek, as a first-time GM, faced a daunting task in replenishing an empty talent pool. Although the Ducks still have a long way to go, several executives appreciate the progress Verbeek has made in his three years. “If everything unfolds as planned, they will be strong in every position,” said one assistant GM.
13. St. Louis Blues (12 points)
Doug Armstrong, a no-nonsense leader, has been tirelessly working to keep the Blues competitive since their peak with the Cup victory six years ago. He plans to hand over the general manager role to Alex Steen after next season, marking Armstrong’s 16th year in the role. One scouting director stated, “They just never fade away.”
14. Minnesota Wild (8 points)
Bill Guerin faced significant challenges as he stepped into the GM role in 2019. The necessary but difficult buyouts of Ryan Suter and Zach Parise have placed considerable pressure on the Wild
’s cap situation tighter than most, but they still are in decent shape when the bulk of the dead money comes off the cap after this season. “Drafting, keeping a positive direction with albatross contracts, character and trust,” one GM said.
GO DEEPER
The Wild’s bold moves never made them ‘serious contenders.’ What now?
15 (tie). Pittsburgh Penguins (7 points)
Kyle Dubas came on board as president of hockey operations and GM before last season to start putting this aging roster in order. This isn’t a short-term fix and the addition of Erik Karlsson, plus an extension for Tristan Jarry, seemed like puzzling moves for a team that needs to start rebuilding. One of our execs showed faith in Dubas, though, with a second-place vote.
15 (tie). Utah Hockey Club (7 points)
It will be interesting to see if GM Bill Armstrong gets a chance to work with a bigger budget — or any actual budget — now that the team he runs is in the hands of a new owner in Salt Lake City. Armstrong built a decent little roster in Arizona. “They’ve added a lot of talent,” said one senior adviser. “Now the moves he has to make are a lot simpler. He has the ingredients to have a good team for a long, long time.”
15 (tie). Edmonton Oilers (7 points)
There’s been a few folks in the GM chair over the past decade, and it’s Stan Bowman’s spot for now. With Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl rightly eating up a big chunk of cap space, this job is a challenge for anyone to try to fit good pieces around two of the game’s biggest stars. “You can’t ignore the success they’ve had, even with some turnover in the front office,” one scouting director said.
GO DEEPER
LeBrun: Former Oilers coach Jay Woodcroft on watching Cup Final run, self-reflecting and what’s next
18. Winnipeg Jets (6 points)
GM Kevin Cheveldayoff’s 13-year tenure has produced a pretty decent team, given the factors — including requested changes of scenery — that have gone against the Jets since they moved from Atlanta. “They draft well, develop their players,” an assistant GM said. “They’ve taken strides in being more proactive in trades because that had been a roadblock. They probably don’t want to admit it, but it’s a tough place to attract players, and they’ve continued to win.”
19. Washington Capitals (4 points)
Brian MacLellan’s decade at the helm produced a Stanley Cup and some blah seasons since. He turned over the GM duties to Chris Patrick and the Caps have managed to stave off a slide down the standings as Alex Ovechkin chases Wayne Gretzky’s NHL goal record — a difficult feat given how old this team got.
20 (tie). Philadelphia Flyers (3 points)
GM Daniel Brière and team president Keith Jones are trying to make the Flyers relevant again. The draft gamble on talented forward Matvei Michkov could pay off quickly, but Philly is a tough place for such a long rebuild. “I think they’re on the right track,” one assistant GM said.
20 (tie). Nashville Predators (3 points)
Barry Trotz’s first year as GM certainly bodes well for the future Hall of Fame coach. Trotz and the Preds won the offseason with some huge signings, even though they’ve stumbled out of the gate this season. David Poile set the standard in this job for 26 years, so this is no easy role to step into. But the Preds are one of the no-state-tax teams that should become a destination for players for a long time.
GO DEEPER
LeBrun: Behind the Predators’ 0-4 start, and how the Jake Oettinger-Stars deal came together
20 (tie). Vancouver Canucks (3 points)
President of hockey operations Jim Rutherford and GM Patrik Allvin have a contending team out west. The Canucks might even be a Cup favorite if not for Thatcher Demko’s unknown injury timeline. There’s been drama, but Rutherford and Allvin have handled it well. “What Vancouver did to go from where they were to where they are now in a short time is impressive,” a scouting director said.
GO DEEPER
One-on-one with Canucks GM Patrik Allvin: ‘We’re not going to waste any time here’
23. Toronto Maple Leafs (1 point)
Not much love for the Leafs, who haven’t produced enough wins to go with all the attention around their core and their status in Canada’s biggest market. GM Brad Treliving has a big Mitch Marner decision looming, so we’ll see where the Leafs go from here.
Brad Treliving faces a significant choice regarding Mitch Marner. (Steve Russell / Getty Images)
No Votes Received
Buffalo Sabres, Calgary Flames, Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, Los Angeles Kings, New York Islanders, Ottawa Senators, San Jose Sharks, Seattle Kraken
In consecutive years, 2020 and 2021, Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello was awarded the Jim Gregory Award, illustrating how swiftly perceptions of a team can change among other executives. It’s unexpected for the Kings to have received no votes, especially considering their modest achievements in recent years under the leadership of team president Luc Robitaille and GM Rob Blake. The same goes for GM Ron Francis in Seattle, where the Kraken achieved a playoff round victory not too long ago.
If the Flames maintain their momentum, Craig Conroy could receive accolades during his first season as GM. The other teams without votes still have considerable work ahead to garner recognition in the league.
Complete Voting Results
| Team | 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | 5th | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | 3 | 8 | 6 | 2 | 251 | |
| 9 | 7 | 7 | 3 | 4 | 187 | |
| 9 | 7 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 173 | |
| 2 | 11 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 117 | |
| 2 | 3 | 4 | 7 | 5 | 87 |
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(Top graphic: Kelsea Petersen / The Athletic, with photos of Bill Zito, Jim Nill, and Julien BriseBois from Jeff Vinnick and Brian Babineau / Getty Images)
Evaluating NHL Front Offices: Insights from League Executives on the Best-Ranked General Managers
Understanding the Role of General Managers in the NHL
In the high-stakes world of the NHL, the role of a general manager (GM) is pivotal. GMs are responsible for constructing a competitive roster, managing salary cap implications, and making strategic decisions that can influence a team’s success or failure. Evaluating NHL front offices involves analyzing how effectively these executives navigate the complexities of player trades, draft strategies, and long-term team building.
Top-Ranked General Managers: Criteria for Evaluation
When assessing the best-ranked general managers in the NHL, several key criteria come into play:
- Roster Construction: How well does the GM build a balanced team that can compete for championships?
- Player Development: Is there a focus on developing young talent within the organization?
- Contract Management: How adept is the GM at managing contracts, including cap space and player trades?
- Adaptability: Does the GM adjust to the evolving landscape of the NHL, including changes in rules and player trends?
- Success Rate: What is the track record of the GM in terms of playoffs appearances and championship wins?
Insights from League Executives
In conversations with league executives, several names consistently arise when discussing the best GMs in the NHL. Here are some insights into their approaches:
1. Joe Sakic (Colorado Avalanche)
Joe Sakic has transformed the Avalanche into perennial contenders. His ability to assess talent and make strategic trades has set a benchmark. Executives note his:
- Vision: Sakic has a clear vision for team identity that aligns with the Avalanche’s strengths.
- Risk Management: He skillfully manages risks, exemplified by key trades that have paid off significantly.
2. Doug Armstrong (St. Louis Blues)
Doug Armstrong’s tenure with the Blues has been marked by a pragmatic approach to roster construction. He excels in:
- Drafting: Armstrong has made impactful picks that have strengthened the Blues’ core.
- Bargain Signings: His ability to find under-the-radar free agents has bolstered the team’s depth.
3. Julien BriseBois (Tampa Bay Lightning)
Since taking over, Julien BriseBois has maintained Tampa Bay’s competitive edge. Key points highlighted by executives include:
- Salary Cap Management: He effectively navigated cap constraints while retaining star players.
- Innovative Strategies: BriseBois is not afraid to implement unconventional strategies.
Comparative Analysis of Top GMs
The table below summarizes key attributes and accomplishments of some of the best NHL general managers:
| General Manager | Team | Key Strengths | Major Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Sakic | Colorado Avalanche | Vision, Risk Management | 2× Stanley Cup Champion |
| Doug Armstrong | St. Louis Blues | Drafting, Bargain Signings | 1× Stanley Cup Champion |
| Julien BriseBois | Tampa Bay Lightning | Salary Cap Management, Innovative Strategies | 2× Stanley Cup Champion |
Benefits of Effective General Management
Understanding the impact of an effective general manager on a franchise can provide insights into the overall health and potential of a team. Here are some key benefits:
- Competitive Edge: A skilled GM builds a team that not only competes but also thrives in the league.
- Long-Term Stability: Effective management leads to sustained success and a loyal fanbase.
- Player Satisfaction: A well-run organization attracts and retains top talent.
Case Studies: Success Stories from NHL GMs
Examining successful general managers provides a roadmap for emerging leaders in the NHL. Here are notable case studies:
Case Study: The Rise of the Tampa Bay Lightning
Under Julien BriseBois, the Lightning have become an elite franchise by adhering to a strategic blend of drafting, trades, and salary cap management:
- BriseBois prioritized young talent, leading to the development of stars like Brayden Point and Mikhail Sergachev.
- His proactive approach to trades has brought in key players like Blake Coleman, who played a pivotal role in championship runs.
Case Study: The Chicago Blackhawks Dynasty
Former GM Stan Bowman orchestrated a mini-dynasty in Chicago, winning three Stanley Cups between 2010 and 2015:
- Bowman’s foresight in drafting players like Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews helped establish a foundation for success.
- He skillfully maneuvered the salary cap, ensuring the retention of key players while still maintaining depth.
Practical Tips for Aspiring General Managers
For those looking to carve a path as a general manager in the NHL, consider these practical tips:
- Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with trends in player development and analytics.
- Build Relationships: Networking with agents and other GMs can provide valuable insights and opportunities.
- Embrace Technology: Utilize data analytics to inform decisions and enhance player evaluations.
First-Hand Experience: Voices from the NHL
Several current and former NHL executives have shared their experiences and insights, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking:
“In today’s NHL, being a successful GM requires not just a keen eye for talent but also the ability to pivot your strategies based on how the league evolves.” – Anonymous Executive
Another executive emphasized the importance of collaboration:
“Building a successful team is not a solo endeavor; it involves collaboration across the front office, coaching staff, and player development.” – NHL Insider
The Future of NHL General Management
The landscape of NHL general management is continually evolving. Future trends may include:
- Increased Use of Analytics: Expect a greater reliance on data-driven decision-making.
- Diversity in Leadership: More diverse hiring practices may lead to innovative approaches in team management.
- Focus on Player Wellness: A heightened emphasis on mental and physical health will increasingly influence management strategies.
The evaluation of NHL front offices and their general managers provides a fascinating glimpse into the complexities of team building. By studying the successes and strategies of top executives, we can gain a deeper understanding of what drives success in the ever-competitive NHL landscape.
