In a unique and groundbreaking move, NHL coaches and general managers assembled at an airport hotel just outside Chicago to kickstart their final preparations for the upcoming 2023-24 season, reports NHL.com. This extraordinary gathering brought together the full complement of NHL coaches and GMs, providing them with an opportunity to engage in critical discussions regarding the state of the game.
While general managers typically convene at regular intervals, coaches usually cannot participate in such meetings during the season. However, this special September meeting allowed coaches to interact directly with League executives, facilitating an open dialogue and enabling them to contribute their insights on various aspects of the game.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman expressed his enthusiasm for the meeting’s unique format, emphasizing the unprecedented combination of head coaches and managers. This innovative approach to fostering collaboration was well-received, fostering the possibility of future meetings of this nature.
The decision to hold this meeting in September was pragmatic, offering a convenient timeline for all parties involved while minimizing conflicts with other events. The last general managers’ meeting took place in Nashville during the 2023 Upper Deck NHL Draft held on June 28-29.
Arizona Coyotes GM Bill Armstrong applauded the NHL’s commitment to bringing everyone together to discuss rule changes, innovations, and the League’s forward trajectory. The collective gathering proved invaluable for sharing knowledge and learning from past experiences.
Buffalo Sabres coach Don Granato lauded the format, emphasizing that it ensures everyone receives the same information simultaneously. This approach fosters a sense of unity among the coaches and GMs, who, although rivals during the season, unite in their passion for the sport.
As the first meeting of this magnitude, the primary focus was to provide updates on the League’s direction as it gears up for the new season. The highly anticipated opening night on October 10 will feature three games, all broadcast on ESPN, including the potential debut of top draft pick Connor Bedard for the Chicago Blackhawks against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Additionally, the meeting featured notable guest speakers, former Chicago Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman and former coach Joel Quenneville. Bowman and Quenneville voluntarily addressed the gathering, sharing their experiences and lessons learned. Both individuals had resigned from their respective positions following the fallout of an independent investigation into allegations of sexual assault by Chicago’s then-assistant coach Brad Aldrich in 2010. Bettman revealed that he will make the final decision on whether and when either of them can return to the NHL.
This unprecedented meeting has provided a platform for candid discussions and enhanced collaboration among NHL coaches and general managers, setting the stage for an exciting and memorable 2023-24 NHL season.
