The Minnesota Wild introduced Chuck Fletcher as the team's next general manager, signing the former Penguins assistant GM to a multi-year contract.
Fletcher, son of longtime NHL executive and Hall of Fame member Cliff Fletcher, replaces Doug Risebrough, whose contract as president and general manager of the team was not renewed after the regular season ended.
''Chuck has the qualities I was looking for in a general manager,'' Leipold said in a press release. ''Chuck is organized, well spoken, has a strong scouting background, has worked toward the development of young prospects and has negotiated many NHL contracts. Along with his past experience, Chuck has excellent leadership qualities and management skills that will certainly help him move quickly into this position.''
TSN hockey analyst Pierre McGuire also interviewed for the GM's job with the Wild. The Minnesota Tribune reported that other strong candidates for the position included former Maple Leafs and Canucks general manager and head coach Pat Quinn, Nashville Predators assistant general manager Paul Fenton, and Tom Lynn, the acting general manager for the Wild.
Fletcher, 42, brings strong credentials to Minnesota. A Harvard graduate, he spent nine years in the front office of the Florida Panthers before joining the Anaheim Ducks. During his four years in Anaheim, Fletcher served in senior roles including director of hockey operations, assistant general manager, and vice president of amateur scouting and player development.
He was hired as assistant general manager to Pittsburgh's Ray Shero in July, 2006.
