NHL executive Gerry Meehan helped engineer the first defection of a Soviet player (opens original article in a new tab)

Gerry Meehan, a former NHL player and executive, played a pivotal role in the first Soviet player's defection to the NHL, contributed to the Buffalo Sabres' success, and pioneered sports-law and analytics in hockey.

• Gerry Meehan helped engineer the first defection of a Soviet player, Alexander Mogilny, to the NHL
• Meehan was a key figure in the Buffalo Sabres' history, including recording the team's first assist and leading them to playoff berths
• Meehan pioneered sports-law education and analytics in hockey, mentoring future legal professionals and using data-driven strategies in player acquisitions
• He also contributed to the development of NHL expansion franchises and helped retired players secure government pensions