Stan Bowman is making his return to the NHL as the new general manager of the Edmonton Oilers, the team announced on Wednesday. This news was initially reported by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman.
Bowman takes over from Ken Holland, whose contract expired on June 30 without an extension offer following a strong playoff run that ended in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Previously, Bowman served as the general manager of the Chicago Blackhawks. However, in 2021, he, along with coach Joel Quenneville and executive Al MacIsaac, was barred from holding NHL executive roles after an investigation revealed mishandling of sexual assault allegations by former player Kyle Beach against the team’s video coach Brad Aldrich in 2010. The Blackhawks were fined $2 million, and Beach received an undisclosed settlement in December 2021.
Jeff Jackson, the Oilers’ CEO of hockey operations, addressed the issue at a press conference, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation and Bowman’s efforts to educate himself and address past mistakes.
Bowman also spoke at the press conference, expressing regret for his inadequate response to the 2010 situation and his efforts to learn from it. He mentioned that he had informed Beach of his new role with the Oilers and found their conversation “encouraging.” Bowman has previously engaged with Beach through his work with the Respect Group, an organization focused on preventing bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination in sports.
Sheldon Kennedy, co-founder of the Respect Group, supported Bowman’s appointment, noting his acknowledgment of past errors and ongoing efforts to improve safety in sports environments. Kennedy, who was present at Bowman’s introductory press conference, praised Bowman’s commitment to these issues.
Bowman’s tenure with the Blackhawks, where he held roles including general manager and president of hockey operations from 2009 to 2021, was marked by three Stanley Cup victories. He is also the son of Hockey Hall of Fame coach Scotty Bowman.
