3 candidates Edmonton Oilers should avoid for their vacant GM role ft. Stan Bowman

The Edmonton Oilers need a new general manager after Kevin Holland decided to not return. Jeff Jackson has been serving as the interim GM, but he will be hiring someone soon to take over.

There are plenty of former NHL general managers who could use a second chance, but there are also candidates that Edmonton should look to avoid hiring.

3 candidates Edmonton Oilers should avoid for their vacant GM role

No. 1 — Stan Bowman

Stan Bowman was reinstated by the NHL and became eligible for hiring on July 10.

Bowman worked in the Chicago Blackhawks organization from 2005 to 2021 and was the GM who led them to Stanley Cups in 2010, 2013 and 2015.

However, the problem with hiring Bowman is the potential backlash from fans. He was in charge during the Kyle Beach allegations, as the former player accused a Blackhawks staff member of sexually assaulting him.

Bowman was banned from the NHL for his handling of the situation. Although he has built Stanley Cup-winning teams, the potential backlash from fans isn't worth it.

No. 2 — Jarmo Kekalainen

Jarmo Kekalainen was fired by Columbus

Jarmo Kekalainen was the GM of the Columbus Blue Jackets from 2013 until 2024, but he struggled in the role.

Kekalainen made a lot of questionable moves, and Columbus did not have the success many expected them to have.

Although many GMs get better in their second job after learning from their mistakes, Edmonton can't afford to hire him. The Oilers need someone who has a proven track record. Edmonton just missed out on the Stanley Cup last season and will be looking to go a step further this upcoming season.

No. 3 — Peter Chiarelli

Peter Chiarelli was the GM of the Boston Bruins from 2006 until 2015 and helped lead the team to a Stanley Cup in 2011.

Chiarelli was also the Oilers GM from 2015 until 2019 but was fired. His moves didn't look good at the time, but in hindsight, he made a lot of solid moves. Signing Leon Draisaitl to a cheap extension is a good example.

However, Chiarelli wasn't liked in Edmonton, so it would not be wise for the Oilers to hire him.