Jan 20, 2024; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Canucks head coach Rick Tocchet speaks to his team during a stop in play against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second period at Rogers Arena. Canucks won 6-4.

Photo credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images

A former Vancouver Canucks executive has landed a new job in the National Hockey League after taking a year off following his departure from the Toronto Maple Leafs.

The halfway point of the 2025-26 season is already in the rearview mirror and it’s been a bit surprising to not see many changes in front offices and coaching staffs around the National Hockey League yet.

While there’s been a lack of changes around the league, as mentioned, we have seen a handful of additions to front offices since the start of the 2025-26 campaign and this week, a former Vancouver Canucks executive finds himself back in the National Hockey League after one season break.

Former Vancouver Canucks executive lands new job in the National Hockey League

“I have known Laurence for many years, and I am very excited to welcome him to the Columbus Blue Jackets. He is extremely knowledgeable about all facets of team and league operations, and his experience and personality will be a great addition to our hockey operations staff.” Blue Jackets General Manager Don Waddell said.

Gilman, 61, brings 26 years of experience to the Columbus Blue Jackets after beginning his career as the Director of Hockey Administration for the original Winnipeg Jets during the 1994-95 season.

The Winnipeg, Manitoba native accompanied the Jets during their relocation to Phoenix, Arizona and would go on to spend 11 seasons with the Coyotes before leaving the club in 2007.

In 2008, Gilman was hired by the Vancouver Canucks to serve as their Vice President of Hockey Operations and Assistant General Manager, a role he would hold until July 2015 when he was fired.

Three years after he was let go by the Vancouver Canucks, found his next job in hockey as he was brought in by the Toronto Maple Leafs to become their Assistant General Manager under Kyle Dubas.

“I’m very excited to join the Blue Jackets and want to thank Don for the opportunity. Columbus is a terrific market with great fans, and I look forward to working with everyone there and doing everything I can to help this team have success on the ice.” Gilman said.

Under Gilman’s leadership, the Columbus Blue Jackets will look to return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since the bubble in 2020, but they’ll be in tough as the club current sits last in the Eastern Conference with a 18-17-7 record through 42 games.

Previously on Vancouver Hockey Daily

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Former Vancouver Canucks executive lands big new job in the National Hockey League

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