Original Atlanta Flames staffer (and legendary hockey executive) David Poile to retire at end of season

During a Sunday that was chock full of trade news throughout the league, a fairly major announcement went under the radar. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported – and the club later officially announced – that long-time Nashville Predators general manager David Poile will be retiring at the end of the season.

Poile got his start in pro hockey with the Flames franchise, way back during their expansion season. Recently graduated from Northeastern University, a 22-year-old Poile was hired as the club’s administrative assistant and actually opened the club’s offices in 1972 out of a trailer, as the Omni Coliseum was still under construction.

Serving as Cliff Fletcher’s right hand man, Poile rose in the ranks and served as assistant general manager from 1977 through 1982. He departed the Flames in 1982 to take over as Washington Capitals general manager, and subsequently moved onto the expansion Nashville Predators in 1997. He’s been in Music City ever since.

For lack of a better term, Poile has been an institution in the NHL over the past five decades. He’s going to be succeeded by another NHL institution, long-time head coach Barry Trotz, as of July 1. (Poile will remain with the Predators as an advisor to Trotz.)

Join us on March 3rd for the Daily Faceoff Live: Trade Deadline edition as Frank Seravalli and the panel break down all of the latest rumours, news, and rumblings from around the NHL. The show will be live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter from 10 AM – 2 PM MT to keep you up to date on all things trade deadline no matter where you’re watching from.