"I've done my best and now it's time for me to pass the torch," Gainey said on Monday, according to TSN. "I believe that the general manager position requires a long-term vision and a long-term commitment. At this point, I'm not prepared to make a commitment of four or five or six more years in this position."
Gauthier was born in Montreal and has been with the Canadiens since 2003, originally joining the team as the director of professional scouting.
Gainey spent his entire playing career in Montreal, serving as the captain for eight seasons and winning five Stanley Cups. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1992. Gainey held the GM position in Montreal since 2003, with the team posting a 241-176-46-7 record under his control. He will stay on with the team as a special adviser to the GM.
"I'm leaving the team I love the most in the hands of the man I trust the most," Gainey said. "I look forward to assisting Pierre and the team in our pursuit of our 25th Stanley Cup."
