McGill University graduate Chris Armstrong has been named president of hockey operations for the NHL's Utah franchise.

Men's Hockey | June 30, 2024 12:01:00 AM

Montreal – Chris ArmstrongThe McGill University graduate has been named president of hockey operations for the Utah Hockey Club, joining what recently became the National Hockey League's newest franchise. One of 12 McGill alumni currently employed by NHL teams (see list below), he will also serve as acting director for the team formally known as the Arizona Coyotes.

A bilingual native of Montreal, Quebec, Armstrong studied business at McGill University's Desautels School of Management, graduating in 2003. He was scouted to work with the university's men's hockey team by the head coach at the time. Martin RaymondArmstrong eventually moved into video analysis and student assistant coaching under Raymond. After graduating, he continued working as a part-time amateur scout at McGill University in the Ontario Hockey League while completing a degree in sports management at Brock University in 2005. He began his professional career with IMG in Toronto in 2004.

“I’m very excited for him,” said Raymond, who left McGill in 2009 to serve as an NHL assistant coach with Tampa and Ottawa. “He’s very appreciative of his time at McGill, Chris told me as an Ontario-based hockey scout.” David Urquhart He was the best defenceman on the list in Ontario that year, so I listened to him and went after Dave.”

Urquhart enjoyed a Hall of Fame playing career at McGill University and is entering his fourth year as head coach of the hockey program.

Armstrong will be involved in the business operations and ownership of Smith Entertainment Group (SEG). He was an executive at Los Angeles-based sports marketing and talent management company Wasserman for nearly 14 years, where he played a key role as an advisor on the acquisition strategy that established the company's hockey business in 2018. He has also negotiated contracts with prominent hockey executives within the NHL and managed the careers of some of Utah's top professional golf players and notable figures. Tony Finau.

In 2009, Armstrong was the youngest person to be named to the National Post's list of the 25 Most Influential People in Canadian Golf. Armstrong, who was named one of the Sports Business Journal's 40 Under 40 in 2021, was instrumental in expanding Wasserman's operations in Canada, including opening an office in Toronto in 2011. In that capacity, he has represented several NHL players over the years. Armstrong most recently served as acting president of hockey operations for the Pittsburgh Penguins. Kyle Dubas He said that during 2023 negotiations with his former employers, the Toronto Maple Leafs.

He will oversee the department's day-to-day operations. Bill Armstrong He will be entering his fifth season as general manager of the franchise formerly known as the Coyotes, though there is no blood relationship.

“I'm excited to welcome Chris to the SEG leadership team,” said the team owner. Ryan Smith “Throughout his career, he has built strong relationships with some of the top players, agents and executives in hockey, and his unique background and diverse skill set will be invaluable in delivering the best hockey experience for our community, fans, players, coaches and front office,” he said in a press release.

McGillian (43) in NHL coaching and management

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