In a stunning turn of events, Jim Rutherford, the esteemed General Manager of the Pittsburgh Penguins, known for his shrewd and strategic moves that led the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup victories, has come under scrutiny for some of his signings that ultimately proved to be detrimental to the team’s success.
While Rutherford’s track record is undeniably impressive, with a plethora of brilliant moves that contributed to the Penguins’ triumphs on the ice, even the best can sometimes falter. Let’s delve into the three signings that have been deemed as the worst during Rutherford’s time in charge.
The first signing that comes under the microscope is Conor Sheary, whose $3 million AAV contract quickly became a point of contention as he failed to meet expectations. With the emergence of young talent like Jake Guentzel vying for a spot on Sidney Crosby’s wing, Sheary found himself sidelined from the top six forwards. This led to his eventual departure to the Buffalo Sabres, making way for a new chapter in his career.
Next up is defenceman Matt Hunwick, who was brought in on a three-year, $6.75 million deal in an attempt to bolster the team’s defensive depth. However, following the departure of key players like Trevor Daley, Hunwick failed to live up to the expectations set for him. Struggling to find his place in the lineup, Hunwick became a regular healthy scratch and his lacklustre performances on the ice only added to the disappointment surrounding his signing.
The final signing that casts a shadow over Rutherford’s tenure is the controversial Jack Johnson, who was inked to a five-year, $16.25 million contract, much to the dismay of fans and critics alike. Johnson’s time with the Penguins was marred by poor performance, with defensive lapses and lack of mobility hindering the team’s defensive capabilities. Despite his physical presence, Johnson failed to make a positive impact on the ice and found himself frequently benched due to his subpar play.
In a twist of fate, both Sheary and Hunwick were eventually traded to the Buffalo Sabres, allowing Rutherford to rectify the costly contracts at minimal cost. However, the damage had already been done, leaving a stain on Rutherford’s otherwise illustrious career as the Penguins’ GM.
As we reflect on these signings, it serves as a stark reminder that even the most successful individuals can make mistakes. Rutherford may have guided the Penguins to glory, but these missteps serve as a cautionary tale for future decision-makers in the world of hockey.