Jim Rutherford resigns as Penguins general manager; Patrik Allvin named interim GM

In a sudden move Wednesday, the Penguins announced Jim Rutherford has resigned as General Manager, citing personal reasons. Assistant General Manager Patrik Allvin has been promoted to interim GM.

Rutherford has been the GM of the Penguins since the 2014-15 season. During his time with the Pens, the team made the playoffs every year, and he helped lead the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Championships in 2016 and 2017.

“It has been a great honor to serve as general manager of the Penguins, and to hang two more Stanley Cup banners at PPG Paints arena,” said Rutherford in a statement. Rutherford thanked owners Ron Burkle and Mario Lemieux, and team president David Morehouse.

“There always has been so much support from everyone involved with the Penguins, both on the hockey and business stands, and of course from a special group of players led by Sidney Crosby.”

Rutherford cited personal reasons behind his resignation.

“The fans here have been tremendous to me and my family. I know it’s a little unusual to have this happen during a season, but just felt this was the right time to step away.”

Before arriving in Pittsburgh, Rutherford was the GM of the Carolina Hurricanes/Hartford Whalers for 20 years, winning a Stanley Cup with Carolina in 2006.

“Jim has been an amazing representative of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and he’ll always have a special place in our team’s history, his own legacy,” said David Morehouse, the Penguins’ president and CEO.

“He’ll always be part of the Penguins. On behalf of our ownership, management, staff, coaches and players, we want to thank him for his many contributions, which go far beyond those two Stanley Cups. Jim is a great friend and teammate. We wish him and his family the best.”

Popular restaurant near PPG Paints Arena relying on return of Penguins hockey to stay afloat

Cox Media Group