This honor is presented annually to the general manager who has best excelled in his role during the regular season. Lou Lamoriello of the New York Islanders and Bill Zito of the Florida Panthers are the other two GMs in contention.
This marks Bergevin's third nomination since taking the helm of the Canadiens in 2012. He becomes the fourth general manager to reach the plateau of three nominations for this prestigious award after Bob Murray of the Anaheim Ducks, David Poile of the Nashville Predators, and Steve Yzerman, formerly with the Tampa Bay Lightning. In nine seasons since Bergevin's arrival as Executive Vice President and General Manager, the Canadiens have made the playoffs six times, reaching the third round twice (2014, 2021).
A 20-year NHL veteran with over 1,000 games of experience, the former defenseman had a very active offseason with several important acquisitions, including Stanley Cup champions Jake Allen, Joel Edmundson, Tyler Toffoli, Corey Perry and Michael Frolik. Bergevin also acquired power forward Josh Anderson via trade. Along with adding numerous impactful players to the team, Bergevin ensured that two pillars in Brendan Gallagher and Jeff Petry remained in a Habs uniform for years to come.
"This nomination makes me very proud, especially since it was voted by my peers. I want to recognize the remarkable work of all the members of the organization, coaches and players, who dealt with an extremely difficult schedule with such professionalism and who have made personal sacrifices to ensure the success of the club. This recognition is theirs as well. I'd also like to congratulate Lou and Bill for their nomination," said Bergevin.
Bergevin's notable in-season moves include making changes to the Canadiens' coaching staff by appointing Quebec-born Dominique Ducharme as interim head coach. Along with signing prospect Cole Caufield to an entry-level contract, Bergevin also made some final adjustments to his roster by acquiring veterans Eric Staal, Jon Merrill and Erik Gustafsson at the trade deadline.
NHL general managers and a panel of League executives, print and broadcast media vote for the Jim Gregory General Manager of the Year Award at the conclusion of the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, with the top three vote-getters designated as finalists.
The award has been presented annually since the 2009-10 season.
