Ken Holland began his off-ice hockey career in 1985, with the Detroit Red Wings. He was the team’s western scout, a role he occupied for three seasons. He was elevated to scouting director in 1987 and held that position until 1994. The famous 1989 draft (Nick Lidstrom, Sergei Fedorov, Mike Sillinger, Dallas Drake, Bob Boughner and Vladimir Konstantinov) would have taken place on Holland’s watch.
He moved up to assistant general manager in 1994, and became GM of the Red Wings in 1997. During his time as general manager of the team, Detroit won Stanley Cups in 1998, 2002 and 2008.
Since taking over as general manager of the Oilers, Holland has made a few changes to the scouting staff. Keith Gretzky remained as assistant general manager, Bob Green’s title is now chief amateur scout, and Tyler Wright was installed as director of amateur scouting. Holland may also have been responsible for the hiring of Joakim Holm, a former Frolunda (SHL) coach who is…
