Reports: Capitals will not be hiring Gretzky

Hockey Central’s Doug MacLean discusses Habs/Rangers, saying he’s got a funny feeling that the series is only going four games, and also puts an end to the ‘Doug MacLean going to Washington’ rumours.

Wayne Gretzky will not be the answer in Washington.

According to multiple reports, the Great One will not be taking a front-office job with the Washington Capitals despite having some preliminary discussion with owner Ted Leonsis.

Gretzky is no longer in the mix as the Capitals continue to search for a new general manager and coach after cleaning house in April, reports Comcast SportsNet’s Jill Sorenson and ESPN’s Pierre LeBrun.

Washington is reportedly considering Nashville Predators assistant GM Paul Fenton and Boston Bruins assistant GM Don Sweeney for their vacant GM post. Ray Shero, the recently fired former Pittsburgh Penguins GM, is also believed to be a candidate in Washington.

On the coaching front, the Capitals met in-person with Barry Trotz this week.

“The Caps are looking for a hockey manager, not an ambassador to help fill the Verizon Center,” reports Sorenson. “The Capitals need someone to help them win on the ice.”

Gretzky is said to be open to returning to the NHL in some capacity. He hasn’t been employed by a team since leaving the Phoenix Coyotes in 2009 after serving as their head coach.

No. 99 attended Wednesday night’s playoff game between the Los Angeles Kings and Chicago Blackhawks in Chicago.

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