Gillis interested in becoming Seattle GM

Mike Gillis spent six years at the helm of the Vancouver Canucks. Now, the former general manager hopes his next assignment is guiding another Pacific Northwest franchise.

Speaking with TSN 1040 on Wednesday, Gillis expressed interest in becoming the first GM in Seattle - should the city's NHL expansion bid be granted.

"If they flattered me enough by asking if I was interested, I'd be most definitely interested," Gillis told TSN 1040, per Harrison Mooney of the Province. "I'm hopeful to have a discussion with them."

Gillis, who was dismissed by the Canucks in 2014, has since spent two seasons as a director with Geneve-Servette of the Swiss National League.

During his stint in Vancouver, Gillis' squads captured five division titles while also setting franchise highs in wins and points. It culminated with a trip to Game 7 of the 2011 Stanley Cup Final.

As for Seattle, the city could officially be awarded a franchise at December's board of governors meeting.

Former Dallas Stars and Arizona Coyotes head coach Dave Tippett, who is an advisor to Seattle's hopeful ownership group, has indicated the GM search will begin in the spring.

"(The) general manager I think is somebody who has done that job at the NHL level before," Tippett said in September. "I really think that's important in an expansion team."