Jeff Gorton wants “somebody a little outside the box” for new Habs GM and fans are quick to react

In his introductory press conference as the new executive vice president of hockey operations of the Montreal Canadiens Friday morning, Jeff Gorton was transparent as he could be and promised to be especially if he chooses rebuild is the best route moving forward for the Habs.

When asked about who he will appointed as the team’s new general manager, Gorton revealed that a new GM would be announced after the Christmas break and acknowledged former star goalie Patrick Roy as a candidate, stating he would look at all candidates.

Gorton added that the team is “going to look for somebody a little outside the box, and maybe complement” him.

Fans quickly pointed to Patrick Roy as reactions were loud and clear on social media. Gorton stated that he respects him and what he’s done in the NHL, said he knows he’s a passionate guy and likes that about him, will not rule anyone out, but he just got here and needs a minute to assess everything.

The new executive vice president of hockey operations also confirmed that Dominique Ducharme will continue as head coach for the remainder of the 2021-22 season. Ducharme, who replaced Claude Julien midway through the 2020-21 campaign, coached the Canadiens to their first Stanley Cup Finals appearance since 1993 last season and signed a three-year contract extension in July.

The Canadiens currently second-last in the Atlantic Division with a 6-17-2 record through 25 games.

Let’s wait until Gorton settles in and who he interviews for the GM spot - but it sounds like we should expect “somebody a little outside the box”…