TSN’s Darren Dreger reports that the Tampa Bay Lightning have given Assistant GM Pat Verbeek permission to talk with other clubs. Verbeek has been the Lightning’s AGM for six years now but faces little prospects of internal promotion working under the much-revered Steve Yzerman.
Verbeek was hired by Tampa Bay after scouting for the Detroit Red Wings under Ken Holland. He’s worked under Yzerman and will be a hot commodity for those teams looking to loot from the Yzerman management tree.
If Verbeek were to accept a full GM role, his only option would the Buffalo Sabres. The Sabres cleaned house last week, firing both GM Tim Murray and Coach Dan Bylsma after a disappointing 2016-17 campaign. He will have some competition, however, as the Calgary Sun’s Eric Francis reports that Calgary Flames Assistant GM Craig Conroy interviewed for the vacant Buffalo GM position as well. Conroy’s interview is in addition to the six candidates already reported to be interviewing for the position.
It is also possible that he takes another assistant role, but with more chances for upward mobility. The Colorado Avalanche, Arizona Coyotes, and Winnipeg Jets could present future GM opportunities for Verbeek in the upcoming season.