The phone rang in Jim Rutherford's Raleigh home. This was late May in 2014.
David Morehouse, the Penguins' president, was at the other end.
"Jim, I need your help," Morehouse began, as he was recalling for me late Tuesday night at Consol Energy Center, just outside the most joyful of locker rooms. "I need a GM, and I could use some advice."
He meant it, too. It was only advice he sought. Rutherford was still under contract with Carolina, even though two months earlier he'd stepped down from his 22-year tenure with the Hurricanes, and discussing a job without permission wouldn't be allowed.
"How can I help you, David?" came Rutherford's response.
"I'm looking for someone to come in here," Morehouse proceeded, "with all the talent we've got, all the stars, and get us right again. I'm looking for a GM to take charge."
This time, no response. Stone silence.
And Morehouse knew exactly what that meant. His next call was to the Hurricanes' owner, Peter Karmanos, seeking permission to interview Rutherford.
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The Penguins celebrate Nick Bonino's Game 6 overtime elimination of the Capitals. -- DKPS
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