The Chicago Blackhawks hired legendary coach Scotty Bowman as a Senior Advisor, Hockey Operations on Thursday.
Ranking first among all NHL coaches in games coached (2,141), wins (1,244) and Stanley Cups (nine), Bowman is revered as an all-time great behind the bench.
Bowman's son Stan is an Assistant GM, Hockey Operations with the Blackhawks.
"It's certainly an exciting day for me and for the family," said Scotty Bowman. "Being in Detroit for 15 years, I got to know Gordie Howe. He often talked about… how he felt the most exciting time of his career was when he got to play with his sons. I wanted to work with my son Stan. it's a dream everyone has and it doesn't happen very often."
Bowman will join a talented young Blackhawks franchise that is led on the ice by reigning NHL Rookie of the Year Patrick Kane, as well as first-line centre Jonathan Toews, providing support to the front office team headed by President John McDonough and General Manager Dale Tallon.
"The timing could not be any better than it is today. To see the enthusiasm this team has generated is awesome." Bowman said. "I'm really looking forward to getting this thing to where it should be."
"This is a great day," said Tallon. "It's an historic day for our franchise. (Scotty's) arguably the greatest coach in the history of the game and a great man. He'll take us where we need to go."
McDonough echoed Tallon's sentiments, saying, "The greatest statement you can make is to bring in somebody like Scotty Bowman who is all about winning, all about success. We want to win, and that's what today represents."
Bowman, 75, was a head coach for thirty NHL seasons with the St. Louis Blues, Montreal Canadiens, Buffalo Sabres, Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings and has served as a consultant with the Red Wings since he retired after winning the 2002 Stanley Cup.