The Pittsburgh Penguins have their GM; the Penguins reportedly agreed to a deal with Jim Rutherford to become the new GM for Pittsburgh. Rutherford was most recently the GM of the Carolina Hurricanes. Rutherford was the GM of the Hurricanes when they won the Stanley Cup in 2006.
Rutherford stepped down as GM of the Hurricanes earlier this year, and was reportedly set to remain on with Carolina as the President of Hockey Operations. It appears as though the chance to join the Penguins organization was too enticing to pass up.
The report comes just weeks before the NHL Entry Draft. The Penguins undoubtedly wanted to get their GM in place before the draft in Philadelphia on June 27. Rutherford will also be tasked with deciding the fate of current Head Coach Dan Bylsma as rumors continue to swirl around Bylsma's future with the Penguins.
**UPDATE** Dan Byslma Fired by Penguins
Reports are that on top of the Rutherford hiring, Head Coach Dan Bylsma has been relieved of his duties in Pittsburgh. The move comes as no surpise as new GM's generally like to bring in their own staff. Bylsma was already on the chopping block in Pittsburgh after yet another disappointing Playoff performance. Bylsma will not be without employment for long, and will no doubt be a hot commodity on the costless agent coaching market.