Potential Successors to Ken Holland as Oilers GM
In 1979, Colin Hay of Men at Work penned the lyrics for “Who Can it Be Now?” Fast forward to summer 2024, and Edmonton hockey fans are asking a similar question: Who will succeed Ken Holland as the General Manager (GM) of the Edmonton Oilers? Despite the Oilers’ successful 2024 offseason, CEO Jeff Jackson has no interest in the GM position but plans to appoint a new GM soon. Here, we explore three categories of potential candidates: internal options, experienced NHL GMs, and newcomers.
Internal Candidates
Jeff Jackson didn’t make the brilliant offseason moves alone; current staff members played a significant role. Two notable internal candidates are Keith Gretzky and Brad Holland.
Keith Gretzky
Keith Gretzky, younger brother of hockey legend Wayne Gretzky, has been with the Oilers since 2016 as assistant GM. He played a crucial role in this year’s draft and the early stages of free agency. Gretzky also manages the Bakersfield Condors, the Oilers’ AHL affiliate, which has made the playoffs each of the past five seasons. He has prior experience as the director of amateur scouting for the Arizona Coyotes and Boston Bruins and has played six seasons of professional hockey, enhancing his rapport with players.
Brad Holland
Brad Holland, son of Ken Holland, faces potential bias due to his father’s mixed legacy with the Oilers. Brad, currently the director of professional scouting and assistant GM, is known for his analytical approach balanced with traditional scouting methods. He has significantly improved the Oilers’ talent identification and development.
Experienced NHL GMs
Stan Bowman
Stan Bowman boasts an impressive resume with three Stanley Cups as GM of the Chicago Blackhawks. However, his involvement in the Kyle Beach misconduct scandal and subsequent suspension could make his hiring controversial among fans.
Brian Lawton
Brian Lawton, a former first overall NHL draft pick, transitioned to a successful career as a sports agent and then as GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning. He has contributed to popular Oilers radio show “Oilers Now” and has a deep understanding of the team and the league.
First-Time NHL GMs
Shawn Horcoff
Shawn Horcoff, a former Oilers captain, has worked his way up in management roles with the Detroit Red Wings, including as assistant GM and GM of their AHL affiliate. While he knows Edmonton well, Detroit’s recent lack of success may be a concern.
Mark Hunter
Mark Hunter, with a successful career in the Ontario Hockey League and experience as the Toronto Maple Leafs’ director of player personnel, has been a perennial candidate for GM roles. However, his track record outside of top draft picks raises some doubts.
Laurence Gilman
Laurence Gilman has over 20 years of NHL executive experience with roles in the Arizona Coyotes, Vancouver Canucks, and Toronto Maple Leafs. His departure from Toronto in June 2024 might hint at a potential move to the Oilers.
Conclusion
Whether CEO Jeff Jackson chooses an insider, an experienced GM, or a newcomer, the decision will shape the Oilers’ future. The appointment is expected soon, and fans eagerly await the next chapter in the team’s journey.
