The Montreal Canadiens have secured multi-year contract extensions for general manager Kent Hughes and hockey operations executive Jeff Gorton, as announced by the NHL team on Tuesday. Gorton will transition into the role of president of hockey operations as part of the new agreements, with both Hughes and Gorton previously in the final year of their contracts.
Under the leadership of Hughes and Gorton, Montreal has undergone a remarkable resurgence, surpassing expectations by clinching a playoff spot last season following a three-year absence. The team’s success has been propelled by a talented young core featuring key players such as captain Nick Suzuki, promising newcomer Ivan Demidov, and defenseman Lane Hutson, who was named rookie of the year and recently inked an eight-year, $70.8 million contract extension.
Formerly serving as the general manager of the New York Rangers until May 2021, Gorton joined the Canadiens as executive vice-president of hockey operations later that year. Hughes, a Montreal native, took on the role of GM in January 2022, making significant moves like hiring a new head coach early in his tenure.
The Canadiens kicked off the 2025-26 season with a 2-1-0 record and were set to play their home opener against Seattle on Tuesday night.
