from Joe Starkey of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette,

I have no idea who’ll be discussed in the “builders” category when the 18-member Hockey Hall of Fame Selection Committee convenes June 26 in Toronto — these things aren’t publicized — but if Jim Rutherford isn’t at the top of that list, somebody made a mistake. Somebody needs to put him there.

It’s time.

Rutherford, based on precedent and pure accomplishment, belongs with the great builders of his era. Maybe any era. And he belongs now. He turns 69 next season. Craig Patrick was 55 when he was inducted in 2001. Lou Lamoriello was 66 when he was inducted in 2009. Jim Devellano (four Cups in Detroit) was 66. Bill Torrey (Islanders dynasty) was 61.

Rutherford is the only post-1967-expansion general manager to win Cups with different teams. A mere eight GMs in league history have won more championships than his three. Four of them — Jack Adams, Conn Smythe, Frank Selke and Art Ross — have trophies named after them, and they didn’t have to top 29 other teams.

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