Fired on February 15, former Columbus Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen says he is already ready to take on his next challenge, even if it means accepting an identical position in the National Hockey League (NHL).
The Finn’s 11-year reign has not gone smoothly. As an example, it is enough to recall the hiring of the controversial coach Mike Babcock during the last off-season: he did not coach a single game, because he took the siding because of his annoying habit of spying on the conversations of his players.
On the ice, it was not the most glorious despite the arrival of star forward Johnny Gaudreau in July 2022. The Jackets will miss the playoffs for a fourth time in a row and this year, they occupy the Association’s cellar of the East with 62 points in 75 outings.
“I would be a much better GM the second time around,” Kekalainen nevertheless told NHL.com. I realize I’m not ready to retire, so I’m staying active. I’ve been watching a few games to stay up to date on the prospects coming into the league. That includes a lot of NHL games, junior or university hockey, and AHL games. I’m full of energy and ready for the next mission.”
Not holding a grudge for a penny
The 57-year-old says he doesn’t hold a grudge against his former employer either. He looks forward, while showing gratitude for the opportunity that he has fully savored.
“I’ve heard it often in this business: it’s not whether you’ll be fired, but when. This happened to me for the first time and I obviously didn’t want to have that experience, he said. Now that I’ve experienced this and it’s part of the business, I’m filled with gratitude for everything I got there. The ownership group is great and supports you by letting you do your job. I worked alongside John Davidson [président des opérations hockey] in two different organizations, with the St. Louis Blues and the Jackets. He’s a great person and I enjoyed working with him.”