4:30 PM
On Sunday, the Montreal Canadiens made a number of changes to their front office, including the firing of general manager and executive vice president, and assistant general manager, and senior vice president of public affairs and communications, Paul Wilson.
Gorton was the general manager of the New York Rangers. Gorton was with the Rangers until he was replaced by Chris Drury.
Bergevin was in the final year of his contract with the Montreal Canadiens. Bergevin never came to an agreement when Montreal tried to negotiate an extension last summer.
The Canadians said in a press release that a process is underway to find a new general manager. Montreal stated that its next general manager will be able to communicate with fans in both French and English.
In a statement released by the team, the owner thanked Bergevin, Timmins and Wilson for their "passion and engagement" over the years.
"We wish them all the success they deserve in their careers, and we hope they do well in it," he said. I think it's time for a change in leadership within our hockey operations department that will bring a new vision and allow our fans and partners to continue cheering for a championship team.
Scott Mellanby, the assistant general manager, resigned on Saturday night. Mellanby was promoted to assistant GM by Bergevin after he was director of player personnel.
According to TSN, Mellanby was in talks with Molson about becoming Montreal's next general manager. Mellanby left the organization when he was told he was out of the running.
Montreal has had a bad season. The team is off to their worst start in franchise history, with only 12 points in their first 22 games.
Montreal was a Cinderella story months ago. The team barely made it to the playoffs before going on to win the Stanley Cup. Since that series, the Habs have been tumbling.
Montreal is second in goals against (3.61 per game), 30th on the power play (12.9%) and 28th in goals for (2.35). The play on the ice has been terrible and the team is still reeling from major losses.
Weber has been out for the entire season due to an injury. Carey Price was absent to start the season while he was in the NHL/NHLPA's player assistance program to address substance abuse issues, but has since returned to the team after a 30-day treatment, but is still recovering from knee surgery.
The only team currently in turmoil is the last-placeVancouverCanucks, and they will be facing the Habs on Monday.
