According to CEO Jeff Jackson’s comments on The Bob McCown Podcast last week, we should theoretically know who the Edmonton Oilers’ next general manager will be by Friday. Fans and media alike are eagerly anticipating the announcement for one of the most prestigious NHL positions today. However, due to recent rejections, it opens the door for the Oilers to bring in one of the brightest minds in the game. It’s important to consider the aspect of loyalty in this decision.
The Athletic’s Daniel Nugent-Bowman notes that Mathieu Darche is close friends with Lightning’s general manager Julien BriseBois. Convincing him to leave Tampa Bay, where he has been part of a team that reached three Stanley Cup Finals and won two, will be challenging. However, Darche may still want to branch out and prove he can lead an NHL team to the Stanley Cup. Joining a team like the Oilers, who are on the brink of success, could be the perfect opportunity.
The list of potential candidates is impressive, including current Oilers staff and assistant general managers Keith Gretzky and Brad Holland, as well as Mark Hunter, Sean Burke, and the controversial Stan Bowman.
Another name to consider, albeit a long shot, is Mathieu Darche. He has been the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Director of Hockey Operations since May 2019 and an assistant general manager since 2022.
Like Hunter and Burke, Darche brings invaluable experience from his nine seasons playing in the NHL, providing a natural rapport with today’s players. He played 250 games between 2000-01 and 2011-12 for the Columbus Blue Jackets, Nashville Predators, San Jose Sharks, and Tampa Bay Lightning, finishing his career with the Montreal Canadiens.
According to the Lightning’s official site, the 47-year-old is highly regarded for his loyalty and respect among players, having been involved in the NHLPA negotiating committee during the 2012-13 work stoppage and the Professional Hockey Players Association for the AHL’s collective bargaining agreement.
Darche has an excellent reputation within NHL circles and seems destined for greatness. However, he has yet to secure a bigger position despite being considered for roles with the Canadiens, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Vancouver Canucks.