john james "jack" adams (june 14, 1895 – may 1, 1968) was a canadian professional ice hockey player, coach and general manager in the national hockey league and pacific coast hockey association. he was a hall of fame player during a 10 year professional career with toronto, vancouver and ottawa. he is best known for his 36-year association with the detroit red wings of the nhl as coach or general manager. he later became president of the central hockey league.