MAJOR | Penguins make MAJOR off-ice changes after missing post-season for first time since 2006
The Pittsburgh Penguins announced on Friday morning that they've fired President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke, General Manager Ron Hextall and Assistant General Manager Chris Pryor after the team missed the playoffs for the first time since 2006.
"We are grateful to Brian, Ron, and Chris for their contributions to the organization over the past two seasons, but we feel that the team will benefit from new hockey operations leadership. While this season has been disappointing, we believe in our core group of players and the goal of contending for the Stanley Cup has not changed."
The Penguins added that the search for a new management group will begin immediately, with the hockey operations group being looked after right now by Alec Schall, Erik Heasley, and Andy Saucier. Head coach Mike Sullivan is also expected to help with the transition.
Pittsburgh's streak of 17 consecutive playoff appearances was snapped earlier this week, large in part to a devastating loss to the Chicago Blackhawks. It will be interesting to see who's brought in on the management side of things and what they'll do to put their stamp on the roster. Pittsburgh has one of the oldest rosters in the NHL and there's no doubt that going into next season, they'll want a younger roster, while retaining key pieces like Crosby, Malkin and Letang.
The Penguins have relieved President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke, General Manager Ron Hextall, and Assistant General Manager, Chris Pryor of their duties, it was announced today by Fenway Sports Group.
Details: https://t.co/kqyacgr0Fr pic.twitter.com/fr9dPvCPOK� Pittsburgh Penguins (@penguins) April 14, 2023
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 14 | 148 ANSWERS MAJOR | Penguins make MAJOR off-ice changes after missing post-season for first time since 2006 Is this the right move from the Penguins ownership? | ||
| Yes | 79 | 53.4 % |
| No | 22 | 14.9 % |
| Should've tried to move players/get younger first | 33 | 22.3 % |
| See Results | 14 | 9.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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