Rutherford is stepping down as Canucks president of hockey operations
Jim Rutherford’s time as Vancouver Canucks president of hockey operations is coming to an end.
In a press conference held after the NHL Draft Lottery, the 77-year-old executive told reporters at Rogers Arena that he’ll step down from his current role after next month’s draft, which is being held in Buffalo June 26 and 27. He’ll remain with the team as an advisor and alternate governor after that.
“I’m going to get away from the day-to-day operations,” Rutherford said. “I’m going to stay with the team as an advisor and an alternate governor… We’re going to put together a really good staff here going forward. This is something that I’ve thought about for a couple of years. It’s time for me to do that.”
“I’ll help with the transition and with the new people in different positions, and things like that. But, I’ll still be part of the organization. When somebody wants to bounce something off me, I’m happy to do it.”
Hired Dec. 9, 2021, Rutherford stayed in his job longer than he expected.
The three-time Stanley Cup winner likely expected more success in Vancouver. Instead, the Canucks made the playoffs just once under his watch.
It seems it’ll be up to the new general manager to steer the direction of the franchise going forward. Rutherford said that over 15 candidates were interviewed for the job, but the list is now down to five.