Toronto, ON (My Sportsbook) - The Toronto Maple Leafs made John Ferguson, Jr. the 12th general manager in team history and introduced him at a Friday morning press conference.

The 36-year-old Ferguson becomes the youngest GM in the NHL. He had been the assistant general manager and director of hockey operations in St. Louis.

"It's a privilege and an honor to be named general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs," Ferguson said. "The tradition, the passionate fan base and this beautiful city make this the best job in hockey. I've grown up around the game and have been preparing for this opportunity my entire life. I am excited, I am ready and we will succeed."

Ferguson headed a list of rumored candidates that included former New York Rangers GM Neil Smith and Vancouver Canucks director of player personnel Steve Tambellini.

After spending five years as assistant GM of the St. Louis Blues, Ferguson was promoted to vice president and director of hockey operations on February 26, 2001. While holding the position, he worked under Blues GM Larry Pleau, performing such tasks as negotiating player contracts and acting as president of the team's AHL affiliate in Worcester, Massachusetts. Ferguson, 34, also oversaw all of St. Louis' professional and amateur scouting.

The Maple Leafs' GM opening was created when head coach Pat Quinn relinquished his dual role with the organization to focus solely on running the team behind the bench. Quinn had served as both coach and GM since July 14, 1999.