According to the report, the Devils’ assistant general manager was a finalist for the Oilers job.

The New Jersey Devils had a remarkable offseason, achieving most of their goals by acquiring key players from other teams. They had a checklist of things to accomplish before the draft and free agency, and they nearly checked every box.

However, they almost lost one of their own essential personnel, associate general manager Dan Mackinnon, to the Edmonton Oilers.

According to Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman, Mackinnon was a finalist for the Oilers’ general manager position, which was eventually filled by Stan Bowman. Friedman mentioned on the 32 Thoughts podcast that Mackinnon advanced far in the hiring process, impressing him as a strong candidate. This news shouldn’t be surprising, given Mackinnon’s experience and background.

Mackinnon has been the Devils’ associate GM since the 2019-20 season and has followed Devils GM Tom Fitzgerald since their time in the Pittsburgh Penguins organization.

He also served as the GM of the Utica Comets last season and will continue in that role during the 2024-25 season. His expertise and leadership make him an attractive candidate for GM positions in the NHL.

The Oilers have been in the news this summer, with Bowman’s hiring and offer sheets extended to Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg from the St. Louis Blues. After suffering defeat at the hands of the Saints, the Oilers have undoubtedly been in the news this summer. Friedman referenced Bowman’s questionable recruitment as the head supervisor only a couple of weeks prior.

Mackinnon’s experience and background make him a strong candidate for GM positions in the NHL. He has been instrumental in the Devils’ success, and his loss would have been a significant blow to the team.

However, the Devils retain his valuable contributions as associate GM, and he will continue to play a crucial role in the team’s decision-making process.

The Devils’ offseason moves have set them up for a strong season, and they will be a team to watch in the upcoming year. They have strengthened their roster through strategic acquisitions and have a solid leadership team in place. Mackinnon’s continued involvement with the team will be essential in their quest for success.

In addition to Mackinnon’s contributions, the Devils have also made significant strides in bolstering their roster. They have acquired key players from other teams, filling gaps in their lineup and strengthening their overall team dynamic. Their offseason moves have been strategic and well-planned, setting them up for a successful season.

The Oilers, on the other hand, have had a tumultuous offseason. Bowman’s hiring was met with skepticism, and the team’s offer sheets to Holloway and Broberg have raised eyebrows. The team’s defeat at the hands of the Saints has also raised questions about their overall performance and direction.

Despite the challenges they face, the Oilers remain a team to watch in the upcoming season. They have a talented roster and a strong leadership team in place, and they will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing offseason.

Mackinnon’s involvement in the GM hiring process is a testament to his expertise and leadership abilities, and he will undoubtedly be a candidate for future GM positions in the NHL.

In conclusion, the New Jersey Devils have had a remarkable offseason, achieving most of their goals and strengthening their roster through strategic acquisitions.

However, they almost lost associate general manager Dan Mackinnon to the Edmonton Oilers, who was a finalist for the team’s GM position.

Mackinnon’s experience and background make him a strong candidate for GM positions in the NHL, and his continued involvement with the Devils will be essential in their quest for success. The Oilers, on the other hand, have had a tumultuous offseason, but they remain a team to watch in the upcoming season.