Stars hire ex-coach, GM Gainey as consultant

Former Dallas Stars general manager Bob Gainey has rejoined the organization as a consultant, the team announced Thursday.

"I'm a big fan," Stars president and CEO Jim Lites told reporters. "We're excited because of what Bob brings to this market, to this team and to the needs we've identified collectively. I just think he is going to be great."

Gainey, who played of five Stanley Cup Championship teams with the Montreal Canadiens, joined the Stars as head coach in 1990 and became GM in 1992. He stepped down as coach in 1996, but stayed as GM through 2002.

The Stars won the Stanley Cup in 1999 under his watch.

"His experience and wisdom in this business is second to none, and he'll be an incredible asset as we continue to build our team to championship levels," GM Joe Nieuwendyk said in a statement.

Gainey, 58, was also GM in Montreal from 2003-10. He was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1992.

Lites said Gainey could work in a number of issues, including as an extra voice for Nieuwendyk.