MacLellan, Nill, Rutherford named finalists for GM of Year

Washington Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan, the Dallas Stars' Jim Nill, and Jim Rutherford of the Pittsburgh Penguins are the finalists for the 2016 NHL General Manager of the Year Award, the league announced Wednesday.

MacLellan helped his team set a franchise record with 56 wins while capturing the second Presidents' Trophy in franchise history. MacLellan's biggest acquisitions this season were T.J. Oshie and Justin Williams, who combined for 48 goals and 103 points during the regular season.

Nill helped his club reach its highest point total in a season since 2005-06, amassing 109 - good enough for top spot in the Western Conference. Nill was responsible for acquiring Patrick Sharp, Johnny Oduya, and Antti Niemi ahead of this season.

Rutherford is the only finalist whose team is still competing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Not only did Rutherford change coaches this season - firing Mike Johnston and promoting Mike Sullivan - but he picked up depth additions Nick Bonino, Eric Fehr, and Matt Cullen, while also making a huge splash in the offseason by acquiring sniper Phil Kessel from the Toronto Maple Leafs.