MAJOR: Disgraced NHL General Manager Reportedly Returning to the NHL:

PUBLICATION

Skyler Walker
November 6, 2023 (9:46)

SHARE THIS STORY

Veteran NHL Executive, Peter Chiarelli, a Potential Contender for Senators' GM Position

In the world of hockey, there's a commonly held belief that it's something of an exclusive old boys' club. One prominent figure that exemplifies this notion is the experienced NHL executive, Peter Chiarelli.

Five Candidates Eye Senators' GM Role

The Ottawa Senators are currently in the hunt for a new general manager, and insider Bruce Garrioch, closely associated with the Senators, has recently unveiled a list of potential candidates. Among these contenders is Peter Chiarelli. The list also includes Detroit Red Wings' assistant general manager, Shawn Horcoff, Tampa Bay Lightning executive Mathieu Darche, Arizona's assistant general manager John Ferguson Jr., and Senators' assistant general manager Ryan Bowness.

A Checkered Career

Peter Chiarelli's journey in the GM's chair has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. While he initially enjoyed success thanks to former Boston Bruins interim general manager Jeff Gorton's groundwork, which promptly led to a championship-winning team, Chiarelli's full-time tenure as a GM was marked by a series of questionable choices.

His mishandling of the Tyler Seguin trade during his time with the Boston Bruins remains a subject of discussion within NHL circles. His leadership of the Edmonton Oilers didn't fare much better. Controversial contracts were handed out to goaltender Mikko Koskinen and veteran forward Milan Lucic. Dubious trades, including one that sent future Hart Trophy recipient Taylor Hall to the New Jersey Devils in exchange for defenseman Adam Larsson, raised eyebrows. The ill-fated Griffin Reinhart trade, in which valuable draft picks were surrendered, one of which later became New York Islanders star forward Mathew Barzal, only added to the scrutiny.

Reassessing the Decision

Given Chiarelli's track record, some may question why he's being considered for another GM position, especially under a new ownership group. The decision to explore this avenue certainly prompts curiosity, and the NHL community eagerly anticipates the Senators' final decision.

As seen on Hockeyfeed