List of Carolina Hurricanes General Managers (1972-2024)
The Carolina Hurricanes, since their inception in 1972, have seen a dynamic array of leaders at the helm, steering the franchise through the highs and lows of professional ice hockey. Over the years, the role of the General Manager has been crucial in shaping the team’s destiny. From triumphs on the ice to strategic moves behind the scenes, these individuals have left an indelible mark on the Hurricanes’ legacy. In this retrospective journey, we explore the timeline of Carolina Hurricanes General Managers from 1972 to 2024, highlighting their tenures and notable accomplishments.
Also Read: List of Calgary Flames General Managers (1972-2024)
List of Carolina Hurricanes General Managers (1972-2024):
| No. | Name | Tenure | Accomplishments during this term |
| – | Jack Kelley | April 1, 1972 – December 26, 1975 | Won Avco World Trophy (1972–73) |
| – | Ron Ryan | December 26, 1975 – May 5, 1977 | – |
| 1 | Jack Kelley (Return) | May 5, 1977 – April 2, 1981 | 1 playoff appearance |
| 2 | Larry Pleau | April 2, 1981 – May 2, 1983 | No playoff appearances |
| 3 | Emile Francis† | May 2, 1983 – May 11, 1989 | 1 division title and 4 playoff appearances |
| 4 | Ed Johnston | May 11, 1989 – May 12, 1992 | 3 playoff appearances |
| 5 | Brian Burke | May 26, 1992 – October 6, 1993 | No playoff appearances |
| 6 | Paul Holmgren | October 6, 1993 – June 28, 1994 | No playoff appearances |
| 7 | Jim Rutherford† | June 28, 1994 – April 28, 2014 | Won Stanley Cup 1 time in 2 finals appearances (2002, 2006), 2 conference titles, 3 division titles, and 5 playoff appearances |
| 8 | Ron Francis | April 28, 2014 – March 7, 2018 | No playoff appearances |
| 9 | Don Waddell | May 8, 2018 – present | 3 division titles, 5 playoff appearances |
Jack Kelley (April 1, 1972 – December 26, 1975):
Jack Kelley’s initial tenure as the Carolina Hurricanes General Manager was marked by a significant triumph – the team clinched the Avco World Trophy during the 1972–73 season. His leadership set an early standard for success, establishing the Hurricanes as a competitive force in the league.
Ron Ryan (December 26, 1975 – May 5, 1977):
The period under Ron Ryan’s management does not specify notable accomplishments, suggesting a transitional phase for the organization. This could have been a time of strategic planning or structural changes within the franchise.
Jack Kelley (May 5, 1977 – April 2, 1981):
Returning for a second term, Jack Kelley led the team to one playoff appearance, showcasing his ability to guide the Hurricanes to postseason contention. His tenure contributed to the team’s ongoing development and competitiveness.
Larry Pleau (April 2, 1981 – May 2, 1983):
Larry Pleau’s term did not see any playoff appearances, indicating a period of strategic planning or rebuilding. His role likely involved laying the groundwork for future success, setting the stage for subsequent General Managers.
Emile Francis (May 2, 1983 – May 11, 1989):
Emile Francis made a significant impact during his tenure, leading the Hurricanes to one division title and four playoff appearances. His leadership solidified the team’s competitive presence in the league, contributing to a successful era for the franchise.
Ed Johnston (May 11, 1989 – May 12, 1992):
Under Ed Johnston’s management, the Hurricanes made three playoff appearances, showcasing sustained competitiveness. His tenure was characterized by success on the ice, contributing to the team’s growth and standing in the league.
Brian Burke (May 26, 1992 – October 6, 1993):
Brian Burke’s term did not yield playoff appearances, but it likely involved strategic planning and organizational changes. This transitional period may have set the stage for future success under subsequent leadership.
Paul Holmgren (October 6, 1993 – June 28, 1994):
Paul Holmgren’s tenure saw no playoff appearances, suggesting a phase of rebuilding or restructuring for the franchise. His role likely focused on laying the foundation for the team’s future competitiveness.
Jim Rutherford (June 28, 1994 – April 28, 2014):
Jim Rutherford’s extensive tenure is a legacy of success, highlighted by winning the Stanley Cup once in two finals appearances (2002, 2006), along with two conference titles, three division titles, and five playoff appearances. His leadership era stands as a pivotal and triumphant period in Hurricanes history.
Ron Francis (April 28, 2014 – March 7, 2018):
Ron Francis led the Hurricanes during a rebuilding phase, despite no playoff appearances. His tenure likely involved reshaping the team and implementing strategic changes to set the foundation for future success.
Don Waddell (May 8, 2018 – present):
In the current era under Don Waddell’s leadership, the Hurricanes have experienced a resurgence. Waddell has overseen three division titles and five playoff appearances, marking a successful chapter in the team’s history under his management.
