While most people in the Montreal area were just getting up and getting ready for work, Habs owner Geoff Molson was busy finding a new Montreal Canadiens General Manager.
At around 8:00am EST, it became official that the Habs have hired Marc Bergevin to be their new GM. Bergevin was seen as an early favourite to be the new GM, but there was still competition with other names such as Pierre McGuire and Julien Brisebois. This morning Geoff Molson told the runner up, Pierre McGuire, that he would not get the job and Bergevin was hired.
Who is Bergevin you say ? Well, this past season he spent his time as the Chicago Blackhawk’s Assistant General Manager. Before that, Bergevin spent 3 seasons as Chicago’s pro scout from 2004-2007. In 2008, Bergevin served as the assistant coach for the Blackhawks. He was then hired as the team’s Director of Player Personnel in 2009. While in this position, Bergevin and the Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup in 2010. Last June, Bergevin became the Assistant General manager of Chicago, and replaced Kevin Cheveldayoff, who is now the Winnipeg Jets General Manager.
Bergevin has lots of experience regarding scouting, coaching and knowing players. He seemed like the best choice, and when two of his closest competitors dropped out, his chances increased. Detroit’s assistant GM Jim Nill and Tampa’s assistant GM Julien Brisebois said they do not want to become the Habs General Manager and withdrew from consideration for their own reasons.
Bergevins first order of duty should be to find a new coach. Bergevin has confirmed himself that Cunneyworth will return to his assistant coach position. With the hiring of a fresh new GM, a top 3 draft pick in June, a great core of players like Price, Pacioretty, Subban and Cole in place, all the Canadiens need is a solid new coach and the future seems bright for the Bleu Blanc et Rouge.
To boot, Bergevin speaks FRENCH!
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