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ANAHEIM (CNS) - Pat Verbeek, who has been the assistant general manager of the Detroit Red Wings for the past three seasons, was named today general manager of the Anaheim Ducks.
``We are delighted to welcome Pat Verbeek to our community to guide our hockey club as the next general manager of the Anaheim Ducks,'' team owners Henry and Susan Samueli said in a joint statement. ``Pat's outstanding work ethic and vast knowledge of the game as a successful executive and player throughout his 35-plus years in the NHL make him an outstanding fit to lead us forward. He brings a unique pedigree, having vast experience and serving in integral leadership roles for championship teams as both a player and executive at the NHL level.''
Verbeek, 57, replaces Bob Murray, who resigned in November one day after he was placed on leave amid a ``professional conduct'' investigation. Murray stepped down saying he would enroll in an alcohol-treatment program. He had served as general manager since 2008.
Verbeek also served as an assistant general manager with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he was also director of player personnel and director of player scouting. As a player, he was a two-time all-star and won a Stanley Cup with the Dallas Stars in 1999. he also spent time with the New Jersey Devils, Hartford Whalers, New York Rangers and the Red Wings.
``It's an honor and a privilege to be named general manager of the Anaheim Ducks,'' Verbeek said in a statement. ``My family and I are looking forward to becoming part of the Orange County community. I'd like to express my gratitude to Henry and Susan, and the search committee for a first-class experience during this process and belief in my vision.
``The Ducks are a championship organization with world-class facilities, and I look forward to working with our entire staff to build on the foundation in place to construct a championship team our fans will be proud of on and off the ice.''