The NHL's Greatest General Managers: Guiding Teams to Glory

In the fast-paced and fiercely competitive world of the National Hockey League (NHL),the role of the general manager (GM) is paramount. GMs are the architects of their teams, responsible for assembling rosters, making trades, and setting the overall direction of the franchise. Throughout the league's storied history, there have been countless individuals who have left an indelible mark on the game as exceptional general managers.

In his captivating book, "The NHL's Greatest General Managers," renowned hockey historian John Smith delves into the lives and careers of some of the most influential GMs in NHL history. From the legendary Conn Smythe, who built the Toronto Maple Leafs dynasty in the 1940s, to the innovative Lou Lamoriello, who transformed the New Jersey Devils into a perennial contender in the 1990s and 2000s, Smith paints a vivid portrait of the visionary leaders who have guided their teams to glory.

The Art of the Dealers: The NHL's Greatest General Managers

by Phil Martin

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	747 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	276 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Through a series of in-depth profiles, Smith reveals the unique qualities and approaches that have made these GMs stand out. From their astute player evaluation skills to their ability to build cohesive teams, from their bold trade moves to their unwavering belief in their systems, Smith uncovers the secrets to their success.

Conn Smythe: The Maple Leafs Legend

Conn Smythe, known as "The Old Admiral," is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in NHL history. As the owner and general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs from 1927 to 1961, Smythe played a pivotal role in building the team into a hockey powerhouse.

Smythe's leadership was characterized by his unwavering determination and his ability to attract top-tier talent. He was instrumental in signing some of the greatest players of the era, including Ace Bailey, King Clancy, and Syl Apps. Under Smythe's guidance, the Maple Leafs captured the Stanley Cup four times, establishing themselves as one of the most dominant teams in the league.

Lou Lamoriello: The Devils' Architect

Lou Lamoriello is synonymous with the New Jersey Devils' rise to prominence. As the team's general manager from 1987 to 2015, Lamoriello transformed the Devils from a struggling expansion franchise into a perennial contender.

Lamoriello's success was built on his astute player evaluation abilities and his relentless pursuit of excellence. He drafted and developed some of the greatest players in Devils' history, including Martin Brodeur, Scott Niedermayer, and Patrik Elias. Under Lamoriello's leadership, the Devils captured three Stanley Cups, cementing their status as one of the most successful teams of the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

Other Legendary General Managers

In addition to Conn Smythe and Lou Lamoriello, "The NHL's Greatest General Managers" profiles a host of other legendary figures who have shaped the league's history. These include:

• Hap Emms, the architect of the Montreal Canadiens' dynasty in the 1950s and 1960s.
• Punch Imlach, the enigmatic and innovative general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 1960s and 1970s.
• Scotty Bowman, the legendary coach and general manager who won a record nine Stanley Cups with three different teams.
• Glen Sather, the long-time general manager of the Edmonton Oilers and New York Rangers, who built two dynastic teams in different eras.
• David Poile, the architect of the Nashville Predators' rise to prominence and the longest-tenured general manager in NHL history.

"The NHL's Greatest General Managers" is a captivating and insightful exploration of the minds and strategies of some of the most influential figures in the history of the sport. Through a series of engaging profiles, John Smith brings to life the characters and decisions that have shaped the destiny of countless NHL teams. This book is a must-read for hockey fans, aspiring GMs, and anyone fascinated by the art of leadership and team building.

The Art of the Dealers: The NHL's Greatest General Managers

by Phil Martin

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	747 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	276 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE