The modern sports world operates in multiyear cycles. The average shelf life of a head coach is only four seasons and a general manager is just five seasons. Being that two G.M.s, Ken Holland of the Detroit Red Wings and David Poile of the Nasvhville Predators have been in their respective posts for 21 years, the average is skewed slightly higher.
New York Rangers General Manager Jeff Gorton has been the man in charge of roster decision for four off seasons following this summer window. During this time frame Gorton has been tasked with adding parts to a contender to try and win the Stanley Cup and stripping the roster down for assets.