NHL’s New Wave of GMs Are Built Different: ‘I Am In the Prediction Business’

When Sunny Mehta took over as the Devils' general manager in April, he brought with him a wealth of experience, having previously served as an assistant GM and head of analytics for the Panthers where he helped win two Stanley Cups. Although Mehta brings a background in analytics to the front office, unlike many GMs throughout NHL history, he has limited on-ice experience.

Recent trends show that owners like Josh Harris and David Blitzer are breaking away from the tradition of hiring former players and long-serving executives, opting instead for young managers with strong corporate backgrounds. Mehta, a 48-year-old former professional poker player and derivatives trader, describes his role as being in the "prediction business," trying to forecast the future performance of hockey players and build a roster accordingly.

Within six months of assuming his new position, Mehta has already made significant moves, including trading away the team's starting goalie and adding 24-year-old Luke Evangelista from the Predators to bolster the Devils' roster. Similar to the changing landscape of the NHL, changes in ownership and organizational structure have also led to the hiring of GMs from diverse backgrounds.

For instance, Eric Tulsky, GM of the Hurricanes, transitioned from nanoscience to data consulting, leading the team to a Stanley Cup in 2026. Toronto Maple Leafs' General Manager John Chayka, 37, comes from the world of analytics as well, having co-founded a hockey-data firm with his sister. Despite facing scrutiny for his actions during his previous tenure with the Coyotes, Chayka's analytical expertise has won him a second chance with the Leafs.

In contrast to the traditional GMs of the past, these new leaders are navigating the salary cap, waiver rules, and trade negotiations with a more corporate approach, much like their counterparts in the NBA and MLB.