Columbus, OH – Looking to boost the fortunes of a sagging franchise, the Columbus Blue Jackets brought in Hall of Famer Craig Patrick as senior advisor for hockey operations.
"I am very pleased to add Craig to our organization," said Jackets GM Scott Howson. "He possesses a wealth of experience, having won two Stanley Cups and two Olympic medals, including gold with Team USA in 1980. His insight and knowledge will be invaluable to the Blue Jackets."
The Detroit native will advise Howson on trades and signings, as well as evaluate talent for the Blue Jackets at the AHL and ECHL levels for the club's minor-league affiliates.
Columbus holds the league's worst record at 8-16-3, and the franchise has only reached the postseason once in 11 years.
Patrick's most recent position in the NHL came with the Pittsburgh Penguins, for whom he served as executive vice president and general manager from 1989-2006. While there, Patrick laid the groundwork for back-to-back Stanley Cup titles in 1991-92.
Prior to that, he worked for the New York Rangers from 1980-86, filling roles such as director of operations, head coach and general manager.
Patrick was also assistant GM and an assistant coach for the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team which memorably won Gold in Lake Placid.
The 65-year-old is the youngest member in one of hockey's premier families. Patrick's grandfather Lester was a former goaltender, coach and general manager with the Rangers and a trophy bearing his name is awarded yearly to the person who is deemed to have made outstanding contributions to hockey in the United States.
His father Lynn also played for the Blueshirts and later served as GM for the Boston Bruins and St. Louis Blues.
