In a salary-cap world, the general manager’s importance can not be understated. So the Penguins went ahead and took care of Ray Shero, as the two sides have finalized a contract extension to run through the end of the 2015-16 season:
↵↵↵“In addition to his work with our on-ice product, Ray also has created a family atmosphere in our organization, where players know they will be treated very well,” said David Morehouse, the team’s CEO, in a prepared statement. “He is committed to having our players and coaches involved in the community and our charitable efforts, and helping to make the Penguins a positive asset to the Pittsburgh region.”
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Shero has been in charge since the summer of 2006 and the Penguins have never missed the playoffs under his leadership. He’s seen as a rising star for his involvement with USA Hockey and is considered one of the finer GMs in the NHL.
↵Other than winning the Cup, Shero has locked up the core of his team - Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Marc-Andre Fleury, Jordan Staal, Brooks Orpik, Kris Letang, Paul Martin and Zbynek Michalek - through at least the 2012-13 season.