Surprise name linked to Oilers vacant GM job.

A big name has been linked to the Edmonton Oilers vacant general manager's position, although I am qualifying this one as a rumor at this time.

For weeks now I have been hearing the name of disgraced former Chicago Blackhawks general manager Stan Bowman linked to that position, but a new report on Saturday evening has cast some doubt on whether or not Bowman will indeed get the job.

That report comes from Billy Stefan who reported on Saturday night that former Toronto Maple Leafs assistant general manager Mark Hunter is expected to take over the role of general manager with the Oilers. Additionally Stefan does make mention of Stan Bowman, but indicates that he is likely to take on a special advisory role with the Oilers although he may also have other options.

Hunter's success as a developer of young hockey talent has been well documented and his success with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League has reflected very well on him. Hunter was at one point in the running to be the next general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, a job that eventually went to Kyle Dubas and a decision that resulted in Hunter leaving the Maple Leafs organization altogether.

Hunter has personally played a role in developing players like Patrick Kane, Corey Perry, Matthew Tkachuk and perhaps most famously Mitch Marner during his time in his role with the London Knights organization. Hunter is famously credited as one of the driving forces behind the selection of Maple Leafs forward Mitch Marner, a pick that clearly worked out for the Maple Leafs despite the recent turmoil surrounding Marner.

Hunter's role with the Oilers would likely focus heavily on player development, something Hunter has demonstrated that he excels at.

Only time will tell if this rumor proves to be true.