Doug Risebrough's journey in the world of hockey began when he was drafted by the Montreal Canadiens in the first round, 7th overall, in the 1974 NHL Amateur Draft. As a center, Risebrough quickly established himself as a reliable player for the Canadiens. His tenure with the team was marked by a series of achievements, including being part of four Stanley Cup-winning teams from 1976 to 1979. His role in these victories was characterized by his gritty playing style and ability to perform under pressure.

Risebrough's time with the Canadiens lasted until 1982, when he was traded to the Calgary Flames. In Calgary, he continued to demonstrate his skills on the ice, serving as both a player and a leader. His leadership qualities were recognized when he was named team captain, a role he held from 1983 to 1987. During his time with the Flames, Risebrough was known for his defensive play and his ability to contribute offensively when needed.

After retiring as a player in 1987, Risebrough transitioned into coaching and management. He began his post-playing career with the Flames, serving as an assistant coach and later as the head coach. His understanding of the game and experience as a player provided him with the tools necessary to guide and develop players from behind the bench.

In 1991, Risebrough took on a new challenge by joining the Edmonton Oilers as an assistant coach. His tenure with the Oilers was relatively short, but it added to his growing experience in coaching and management roles. Following his time in Edmonton, he returned to the Flames organization, this time in a management capacity. He served as the team's general manager from 1991 to 1995, overseeing player transactions and team strategy.

Risebrough's career took another turn when he joined the Minnesota Wild in 1999. As the team's general manager, he played a crucial role in building the franchise from the ground up. Under his leadership, the Wild made their first playoff appearance in the 2002-2003 season, reaching the Western Conference Finals. His tenure with the Wild lasted until 2009, during which he focused on developing a competitive team and fostering a strong organizational culture.

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