Blackhawks give GM Bowman three-year extension

The Chicago Blackhawks extended the contract of general manager Stan Bowman for three years, the Blackhawks announced Tuesday.

Bowman, who has helped guide the Blackhawks to three Stanley Cup championships in six seasons, now has a contract that runs through the 2020-21 season.

"I am proud of how much Stan and his staff have accomplished and have great confidence in his leadership as our organization continues to strive for consistent excellence," president and CEO John McDonough said. "Under Stan's guidance, our Hockey Operations Department is strong across all levels, including scouting, player evaluation and development, and salary cap management. He has created a sound structure that Blackhawks fans can be excited about for many years to come."

The Blackhawks lead the Western Conference standings with 70 points, three behind the Washington Capitals in the race for the Presidents' Trophy, and recently set a franchise record with 12 consecutive wins.

Bowman became GM of the Blackhawks in 2009; the following season, they ended a 49-year championship drought by defeating the Philadelphia Flyers in six games in the Stanley Cup Final. Chicago won the Cup again in 2013 against the Boston Bruins and 2015 against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

He's in his 15th season with the Blackhawks overall, having previously worked in hockey operations.

Bowman will also be a manager of Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, along with Edmonton Oilers GM Peter Chiarelli, in charge of preparing a team of the best under-23 players from the United States and Canada.