Canadiens Extend Contracts of Gorton and Hughes for Five More Years

Montreal, Canada – The Montreal Canadiens announced on Tuesday that general manager Kent Hughes and president of hockey operations Jeff Gorton have signed multi-year contract extensions. Both executives will remain with the team through the 2030 season.

Gorton, 57, was promoted to president of hockey operations after joining the Canadiens as executive vice president in November 2021. Hughes, 55, took the reins as general manager in January 2022. The extensions come after the Canadiens qualified for the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season for the first time since 2021.

“I am very pleased that Jeff and Kent have committed to the Montreal Canadiens for an additional five years,” said Canadiens owner Geoff Molson. He added that the team is filled with “talent, size and speed,” and he looks forward to working with Gorton and Hughes in the future.

Under Gorton and Hughes, the Canadiens have seen significant improvements, including successful drafts and contract negotiations. They selected first overall in 2022 and have signed key players like Lane Hutson, who recently secured an eight-year, $70.8 million contract.

Hughes made headlines early in his tenure by hiring Martin St. Louis as interim coach in 2022, later promoting him to a full contract. This change marked a transformative period for the team’s culture and identity.

“Creating an environment that benefits both individual and collective player development remains our top priority,” Hughes mentioned. The Canadiens ended the previous season with a record of 40-31-11 and lost to the Washington Capitals in the first round of the playoffs.

As the Canadiens prepare for their home opener on Tuesday against Seattle, they aim to build on their recent successes and solidify their position in the NHL.