Edmonton Oilers make decision on Ken Holland's future with organization
Photo credit: Edmonton Journal
Just after losing in the Stanley Cup Final in heartbreaking fashion, the Oilers need to get down to business at the draft in free agency this week - without a General Manager.
Ken Holland's contract is up as General Manager of the Oilers, and Darren Dreger is reporting the team will not be renewing him in that capacity. The Oilers are offering Holland another role within the organization, but it's been reported that the 68-year old is considering retirement. As of now, Holland will not be present at the draft.
Team President Jeff Jackson will likely run the Oilers draft and free agency in the interim with assistant General Manager Brad Holland. Despite the fact the team has been making an unreal playoff push, Jackson is believed to have been exploring candidates for the next General Manager.
Most recently, Mark Hunter was cited as the most likely candidate from several NHL sources, including Jeff Marek and Elliotte Friedman. In addition, Brad Holland, Keith Gretzky, and Mathieu Darche have been listed as candidates.
I also wonder about [Hunter] and the Oilers if this is Ken Holland's last season running the team. Oilers CEO of Hockey Operations Jeff Jackson has always been a fan of Hunter as he always was of Kris Knoblauch and we all know how that played out.
- Jeff Marek, Rink Fries Column
The Oilers are at a pivotal point for the franchise at the moment. Coming off a Game 7 loss in the Cup Final, they've proven they have the talent and personnel to be considered serious contenders. They need to sign
Connor McDavid,
Leon Draisaitl, and
Evan Bouchard to long term contracts, and if they do, they'll be competing for several more Stanley Cups.
Previously on Oilers Daily
POLL |
JUIN 25 | 319 ANSWERS Edmonton Oilers make decision on Ken Holland's future with organization Who do you think the Oilers will hire for their next General Manager? |
Ken Holland will stay | 87 | 27.3 % |
Brad Holland | 33 | 10.3 % |
Keith Gretzky | 97 | 30.4 % |
Other | 102 | 32 % |
List of polls |