Canucks to part ways with amateur scouting director Judd Brackett
Vancouver Canucks GM Jim Benning announced Friday morning that amateur scouting director Judd Brackett will be leaving the team.
Amateur scouting director Judd Brackett, who has worked extensively with the Vancouver Canucks scouting staff for the past 12 years, will be parting ways with the team.
On Friday, general manager Jim Benning announced that Brackett will be leaving the organization, as the two sides were unable to agree on a new contract.
Over the course of his tenure, Brackett’s scouting expertise — particularly within the United States, has played a role in the drafting of talents such as Thatcher Demko (2014), Brock Boeser and Adam Gaudette (2015) and Quinn Hughes (2018).
“We are grateful for Judd’s contributions and leadership at an important time for our team,” Canucks General Manager Jim Benning said in the team release. “Judd earned the respect of his peers and fans alike; we’re proud of what he and our amateur scouting staff have accomplished.”
While there is no word on who will take over responsibility for Brackett’s role following his departure, Benning made it clear how he felt making this decision in the lead up of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft.
“Although difficult, we believe this is the right decision for the future of our team.”, Benning said. “We are confident we have a strong scouting staff and are well positioned for the upcoming NHL Draft.”
While it’s not yet known if Brackett may begin speaking with other teams as he is still under contract with the Canucks, he will surely become a sought-after free agent at the expiration of his deal given his pedigree. Brackett joins Los Angeles Kings assistant general manager and former amateur scouting director Mike Futa as notable names to part ways with their teams this season.
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Aside from Brackett, no additional changes were announced by the Canucks regarding their scouting staff. The statement also said that Benning will continue to make all the final decisions in regards to the draft.