The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that general manager Stan Bowman has stepped down from his position. This news came shortly after the investigation involving the sexual misconduct of Brad Aldrich became public. Kyle Davidson has become the new interim general manager of the Blackhawks.
Stan Bowman has “stepped aside,” per Danny Wirtz. He’s out as GM.
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) October 26, 2021
Stan Bowman Steps Down
At the time of the events involving John Doe and Brad Aldrich, Stan Bowman was general manager of the Blackhawks. According to the investigation, Bowman did not act when presented with Aldrich’s assault in May of 2010. After this meeting, Aldrich continued to work with and travel with the team for three weeks. No action was taken in this time, either. Reid Schar of Jenner & Block, the attorneys investigating the assault, said that no action was taken until June 14th at the conclusion of the playoffs.
All other executives involved in the 2010 incident have also left the Blackhawks.
— Ben Pope (@BenPopeCST) October 26, 2021
In addition, Al MacIsaac has stepped down from his role. Danny Wirtz, one of the owners of the Blackhawks, stated that the team will “seek a fair resolution” to the lawsuits.
NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman notes that the executives named in the report who are no longer with the Blackhawks will need to be personally cleared by him to return to an NHL job. Additionally, Chicago has been fined $2 million by the league for “inadequate procedures.”
Gary Bettman said Bowman, MacIsaac and Blunk would have to be cleared by the commissioner to return to an NHL job. He also said he’ll be meeting with Joel Quenneville (who had denied knowing about the allegations until the lawsuits surfaced) and Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff.
— Mark Lazerus (@MarkLazerus) October 26, 2021
How This Affects the NHL
This news has now expanded the investigation beyond the Blackhawks. Winnipeg Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff and Florida Panthers head coach Joel Quenneville were both involved with the Blackhawks in 2010. Both came out in denial of any knowledge surrounding the Aldrich situation. Bettman is expected to hold one-on-one meetings to determine next steps. Despite their denial, the investigation revealed that both men lied publicly. Montreal Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin was not brought up in the discussion despite serving a role as assistant general manager.
This case may serve as a watershed moment for victims in the NHL. While the results of the investigation don’t change what happened, it may encourage other victims to speak up across the world of professional hockey.
Stan Bowman was a successful general manager. No matter what he accomplished at the NHL level, nothing excuses his actions from 2010 onward.
Main Photo: Embed from Getty Images
