Ron Francis got his first shot in the front office as a member of Jim Rutherford’s staff in Carolina. He was hired as the Director of Hockey Operations in 2011 and eventually replaced Rutherford as their General Manager.
This pre-established relationship will be a useful tool, assuming Rutherford survives his recent shortcomings, when the team is negotiating for their expansion pick. This would be an excellent opportunity for the Penguins to rid themselves of a burdening contract, thus allowing them some cap flexibility during the final few years of the Crosby/ Malkin Era.
Ron Francis Penguins Ties
When people think back on some of the greatest trades in hockey history, the Penguins trade to acquire Ron Francis is generally near the top of that list.