4X Stanley Cup Winner Emerges As Front Runner for Islanders GM Role
Veteran Executive Ken Holland Considered Top Choice Amid Organizational Shakeup
According to Arthur Staple of The Athletic, former Oilers and Red Wings general manager Ken Holland is the New York Islanders' leading candidate to fill their vacant GM position.
On some #Isles items swirling around:
— Arthur Staple (@StapeAthletic) May 6, 2025
-- As of now Ken Holland is top choice
-- Contact made with MTL for permission to speak to Jeff Gorton
-- Marc Bergevin in the mix for #Isles/LAK jobs
-- Have not heard much on Kekäläinen/Chiarelli
-- This may all change in an hour
Holland has been without a team since his contract with the Oilers—where he served as both GM and president of hockey operations—expired following their 2024 Stanley Cup Final appearance. However, he has remained active in the league as a hockey operations consultant.
Despite his extensive experience, including four Stanley Cup wins, there was speculation that the soon-to-be 70-year-old might not return to a full-time executive role. It remains uncertain whether Holland is interested in the Islanders' job, but if he wants it, the position is likely his for the taking.
The Islanders are seeking both a GM and a president of hockey operations after parting ways with longtime executive Lou Lamoriello last month. Holland could potentially fill both roles.
Other Candidates in the Mix
Other candidates have been linked to the opening, including Devils assistant GM Kate Madigan, who was reportedly set for an initial interview. However, updates on her candidacy have been scarce.
The Islanders also reportedly reached out to the Canadiens to discuss Jeff Gorton, Montreal’s executive VP of hockey ops, though permission to speak with him appears unlikely. Meanwhile, Kings senior advisor Marc Bergevin—considered the frontrunner to replace Rob Blake in Los Angeles—is also in the mix for a role with the Islanders.
Former Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekäläinen and Blues executive Peter Chiarelli have been mentioned as possible candidates, but neither seems to be a strong contender at this stage.
Image - Jim Rassol-Imagn
