The Washington Capitals likely won't make the playoffs this season in a poor Eastern Conference, and big changes are expected to be made as a result.
It appears one of the first orders of business in Washington will be cutting ties with general manager, George McPhee, who's been rumored to be on the hot seat for years.
Despite a lot of star power, McPhee hasn't put together a team that's gone on a deep playoff run. Add that to missing the postseason in a poor conference when you have Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom on your team, and that probably won't sit well with owner Ted Leonsis, who's very vocal about his expectations for the Capitals.
While going to Calgary and working with Brian Burke seems like a logical destination, Elliotte Friedman reported in his latest "30 Thoughts" blog that he could end up in New Jersey.
12. George McPhee wouldn't discuss his future at the GM meetings: "The Hockey Gods will get you if you worry about your next job while you've got one." Depending on what Ted Leonsis decides, if Calgary isn't in his future, a couple execs said they wouldn't be surprised if McPhee ends up with Lou Lamoriello in New Jersey.
I believe Lamoriello and McPhee have a strong relationship, and this potential move would make sense.
I don't think it would hurt Lamoriello to have another person with managerial experience helping him make decisions. Lamoriello won't be around forever, either, so some new blood could be good for the organization. While I think his son, Chris, may end up becoming the general manager of the team down the road, I don't think he's ready yet.
McPhee taking on a smaller role in the short-term before being given the keys when Lamoriello's ready to call it a career makes sense for all parties.
As of now McPhee still has a job, obviously, but that could change in a hurry. If it does I expect you'll hear more about this.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Email: NHLToddCordell@Gmail.com