Kent Hughes to Step Down as Montreal Canadiens GM: Multiple Insiders Confirm Imminent Departure… See More…

By Marc Tremblay | Montreal Sports Network | June 16, 2025

MONTREAL — In a move that has sent shockwaves through the NHL community, multiple well-placed insiders have confirmed that Kent Hughes will be stepping down as general manager of the Montreal Canadiens.

While no official announcement has yet been made by the organization, several sources close to the situation have corroborated the news, citing mounting pressure and a shifting vision within the front office as key factors.

Hughes, 54, was appointed in January 2022 as part of the team’s sweeping post-Bergevin era overhaul, alongside Executive Vice President Jeff Gorton. Known for his background as a player agent, Hughes brought a fresh and progressive approach to roster building. He was widely praised for his calm demeanor, long-term planning, and open communication style, particularly with the media and fans.

In his three and a half years at the helm, Hughes made several bold moves, including the controversial but ultimately fruitful trade of Tyler Toffoli, the drafting of Juraj Slafkovský with the first overall pick in 2022, and a focus on developing young talent such as Kaiden Guhle, Lane Hutson, and Logan Mailloux.

Despite a clear developmental trajectory and some bright moments, the Canadiens failed to make the playoffs during Hughes’ tenure. The 2024–25 season, which ended with the team finishing 12th in the Eastern Conference, appears to have been the tipping point.

“Hughes and ownership have not seen eye to eye on the club’s timeline for contention,” said one anonymous league executive. “There’s a growing belief that Geoff Molson wants a faster turnaround, and Kent was firmly committed to a patient rebuild.”

Insiders also suggest that behind-the-scenes friction between Hughes and Gorton may have played a role. While the two were seen as a united front early on, differing philosophies regarding free agency and the team’s core group reportedly widened over time.

Fans reacted swiftly on social media as the rumors gained traction Monday morning. Many expressed gratitude for Hughes’ transparency and long-term vision, while others voiced frustration over the lack of tangible progress.

“If this is true, it’s a sad day,” tweeted user @BleuBlancRouge84. “Kent was building something with integrity.”

A formal announcement from the Canadiens is expected later this week. Speculation is already swirling regarding potential replacements, with names such as Martin Lapointe, Mathieu Darche, and even former GM Marc Bergevin resurfacing in early conversations.

Regardless of who takes over, Hughes’ departure marks the end of another chapter in the Canadiens’ ongoing quest to reclaim their historic glory.

As one NHL analyst put it Monday: “Kent Hughes didn’t get them to the top, but he changed the tone. That might be his true legacy.”