This is my first time doing the NHL awards on Aerys Sports and I decided to do the GM awards, the top award to the GM of the NHL.This award that is being handed out to the top GM of the NHL will be in it’s third year. You look at a GM and wonder why their job is so important. Well, their job is very important, as they sign key free agents in the off season, trade significant players for the deadline, and make sure that their team will make the playoffs. They also answer very difficult questions as to why their team did or did not make the playoffs.
Previous Winner:
10-11: Mike Gillis
Dale Tallon, Florida : In his first season with the Panthers, this GM has surprised many with his off season acquisitions during the summer as his team for the first time since the 1999-2000 are making the playoffs. They are also about to win their first ever Southwest division and they are proving to the Eastern Conference that they are going to be a tough in the playoffs. He knows how to get the job done and he is showing it to the NHL what he can do to make a top contender. I guess we will have to see if his team can win it all when the playoffs start. I expect to see the Panthers in the long run due to his outstanding GM performance.
Doug Armstrong, St. Louis: This GM is doing everything right for the Blues. He signed some savvy veterans in the off season and they clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 2008-09 playoffs and also clinched their 8th Central Division title. They will be a tough team to play in the playoffs. The Blues would not be where they are without his decisions and he has made some really smart ones for this team that is making a big news in the NHL. The Blues made the playoffs cause they know how to win and become that ultimate contender. Adding veterans into a young team like the Blues was a smart move by him.
Joe Nieuwendyk, Dallas You are all wondering why I chose him. Hear me out. This is his second year in the league and he has proven to everyone he is capable of making the right decisions. Of course he made the toughest decision in letting go a few key players. He went out and used the money that was left by that forward to sign several savvy veterans He has been in this situation before last year and he knows what it takes to make contender team. The Stars are currently fighting for a playoff spot and I am expecting them to keep fighting until the last day.
Winner: Doug Armstrong. His team would not be where they are right now. This team has a good chance of winning the Cup this year and have proven to many that you can do so little with your team but with smart decisions by adding key pieces in the summer and at the trade deadline.
