Ken Holland Hired By NHL in New Role After Leaving Edmonton Oilers

Holland has been hired by the NHL as a central Hockey Operations Consultant, meaning that he'll be advising the league on any number of issues that arise - a good role for the 69 year old veteran.

Ken Holland was actually doing some important work on the NHL General Manager's Executive Committee with rule changes, but had to be replaced because he's no longer an active GM.

Perhaps in this new central role with the NHL, Holland can continue his executive work on rule changes. Last week, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that the next GM meeting is discussing shortening video reviews and fixing the playoff salary cap loophole. If Holland can continue this work, it'd bring welcome change for all NHL fans.

It's a bit funny that they're addressing the salary cap loophole in particular, something Holland saw Vegas had great playoff success with Mark Stone's frequent injuries.

Although he made some poor trades and signings with the Oilers, the team did find success under his tenure as general manager, and Holland made valuable adds to the roster which are still helping today. Many fans would argue the Oilers may have won a cup if anyone but Holland was GM.

Even if you don't believe Holland is an effective GM anymore, this role would still be a fantastic use of his experience. Holland's been in the league since 1997, and does bring valuable insight to positive rule changes.

Holland will go down in hockey history as one of the best general managers ever, and if he can accomplish some meaningful work in a behind the scenes NHL role, he'd have a legacy as a builder of the game as well. It's great news for the wily old veteran today.