NHL scouting director EJ McGuire dies at 58

NEW YORK (AP) - Longtime scout and hockey coach EJ McGuire has died after a career in which he spent nearly four decades in the game. He was 58.

The NHL says McGuire had cancer and died Thursday.

McGuire was the director of the NHL's Central Scouting Bureau since 2005. He was an assistant coach for the Philadelphia Flyers and Chicago Blackhawks and a scout with the Ottawa Senators. He also coached college and junior hockey and in the AHL.

NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman lauded McGuire for his "expertise and enthusiasm," calling it "limitless" and vital to all teams.

McGuire is survived by his wife, Terry, and daughters Jacqueline and Erin.

Funeral arrangements are pending.