Montreal Canadiens general manager Bob Gainey quit his job on Monday, the team announced. He’ll remain with Montreal’s front office in an advisory role and will be replaced by Pierre Gauthier.
PHOTO CAPTION: Canada had their own version of Superman and his name was Bob Gainey
“I’ve done my best and now it’s time for me to pass the torch,” Gainey said on Monday. “I believe that the general manager position requires a long-term vision and a long-term commitment. At this point, I’m not prepared to make a commitment of four or five or six more years in this position.
“If I had to choose between leaving a little earlier, or a little later, I’d prefer (to go) earlier.”
During Gainey’s reign, after being hired in 2003, the Canadiens haven’t been a legitimate threat to win it all. Their best season was in 2007-08 when they finished atop the Eastern Conference, but the Philadelphia Flyers took care of them in five games during the Conference Semifinals.
Gainey was more productive as a player for the Canadiens. He was drafted 8th overall in 1973 and played in 16 seasons (all with Montreal), winning four consecutive Frank J. Selke Trophies and five Stanley Cups (1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1986).
Gainey was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1992.
I want you to remember who trained you for the front office!