Vancouver Canucks fire president and general manager Mike Gillis

CANUCKS gillis_two_rrCANUCKS Sports and Entertainment announced on Tuesday that Mike Gillis has been relieved of his duties as president and general manager.

“On behalf of my entire family, I would like to sincerely thank Mike Gillis for his hard work and the many contributions he made on and off the ice during his tenure,” said Francesco Aquilini, Chairman, Canucks Sports and Entertainment. “The Vancouver Canucks had success under Mike’s leadership, and we nearly reached our ultimate goal; but I believe we have reached a point where a change in leadership and new voice is needed.

“I also want to thank our fans for their support for the Vancouver Canucks through a difficult and frustrating season. We haven’t met their expectations or ours. We are committed to bringing the Stanley Cup to Vancouver for our fans and we will continue to do everything possible to reach that goal.”

Gillis replaced Dave Nonis in April 2008 after the Canucks missed the playoffs for the second time in three years. The Canucks made the playoffs every year under Gillis except this season.