The Edmonton Oilers are poised to appoint a new general manager this year, and one prominent name circulating in discussions is Jason Botterill. Botterill, known for his integral role in the Pittsburgh Penguins’ management team during their Stanley Cup victories in 2009, 2016, and 2017, currently serves as Assistant General Manager with the Seattle Kraken under Ron Francis.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli, speaking on Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer, mentioned that the Oilers’ hockey operations head Jeff Jackson may have approached the Seattle Kraken for permission to engage with Botterill regarding the GM position in Edmonton. There’s speculation within the Seattle organization that Ron Francis could potentially be elevated to the role of president, paving the way for Botterill to step into the GM position. However, Seravalli noted that the situation remains fluid and unresolved.
Seravalli’s reputation as a respected NHL insider lends credibility to the rumor surrounding Botterill’s potential move to Edmonton. Despite initial reservations due to Botterill’s tenure as GM of the Buffalo Sabres from 2017 to 2020—a period marked by the team’s absence from the playoffs for 13 consecutive seasons—there were notable successes in player drafting under his leadership. Botterill oversaw the acquisition of talents like Casey Mittelstadt, Rasmus Dahlin (a consensus first overall pick), Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen, and Mattias Samuelsson, who have contributed significantly to Buffalo’s roster.
Before his stint with the Sabres, Botterill played a pivotal role in the Pittsburgh Penguins’ AHL affiliate, Wilkes Barre/Scranton, from 2010 to 2017. During this time, numerous players developed into NHL stars, including Bryan Rust, Matt Murray, and Jake Guentzel, crucial to Pittsburgh’s Stanley Cup triumphs in 2016 and 2017.
Born in Edmonton, Botterill’s hockey journey began as a standout player at the University of Michigan, where he excelled from 1993 to 1997 before being drafted 20th overall by the Dallas Stars in 1994. Despite a relatively short NHL career spanning 88 games over seven seasons, Botterill’s extensive experience and background in hockey operations make him a highly qualified candidate for the Oilers’ GM role.
In Edmonton, Botterill would likely collaborate closely with Jeff Jackson in shaping the team’s management strategy. Given his track record and ties to Edmonton, it would not be surprising if Botterill ultimately assumes the GM position, bringing his wealth of experience and hockey acumen to the Oilers organization.
Additionally, Botterill’s sister Jennifer, a former standout on Canada’s national hockey team, adds a familial connection to the sport through her role as a commentator on Hockey Night in Canada, highlighting the Botterill family’s deep-rooted involvement in hockey at various levels.
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