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NHL Rumors I: GMs and Coaches: Capitals, Canucks and Penguins
Mark Easson
Chuck Gormley of CSN Washington: The Capitals have now gone 40 days without a GM and coach. A source close to Wayne Gretzky said that he wants to be the teams President and would be interested in bringing in Doug MacLean as the GM. The source added that they have only had a few casual conversations and that if they really wanted him, they wold have likely hired him by now. The Capitals are also said to have talked to Bruins assistant GM Don Sweeney. Predators assistant Paul Fenton has been interviewed by the Caps. The Capitals could also be waiting to talk to Ray Shero.
Katie Carrera of the Washington Post: It is believed that Capitals have reached out to Ray Shero about their vacant GM position. Sources are saying that Wayne Gretzky would want an ownership stake in the Capitals if he’s brought in. It’s not known if majority owner Ted Leonsis would be interested in that.
Darren Dreger: Expect the Canucks to name Jim Benning as their new GM later this week. Bringing in a coach will be their next task. Barry Trotz is high on their list. Stars Willie Desjardin is also an option. The Canucks haven’t asked the Stars permission to talk with Desjardins, but are expected too.
William DePaoli: Source saying that the Lightning’s owner gave a “glowing recommendation” of assistant GM Julien BriseBois to the Penguins ownership.
Jim Diamond: Skeptical of any reports suggesting that Barry Trotz and Paul Fenton could go to the same team.
Stephen Whyno: Rob Blake has said he is not ready to become a GM. When asked about rumors that he could be a GM candidate this off-season, he said he still has a lot to learn. This past year was the first that he was an assistant GM.