Ron Francis, Carolina Hurricanes part ways

Not quite two months after being reassigned to president of hockey operations, Ron Francis has been relieved of all duties within the front office.

The Carolina Hurricanes announced in a terse statement Monday that they have “terminated” Francis’ contract. Through a team spokesman, team president Don Waddell and owner Tom Dundon declined comment beyond the team statement. Pro scout and team advisor Joe Nieuwendyk has also resigned his position with the Hurricanes.

Francis was recently reported to have been working from home after his office at PNC Arena was cleaned out, and Waddell told the News and Observer that Francis was available “if needed” in a consultory role. Waddell said after the Hurricanes won the second overall pick in the 2018 NHL Draft on Saturday night that the team would be holding scouting meetings over the next couple of weeks, presumably including Francis in those meetings at the time but things certainly seem to have gone sideways in a hurry.

The release from the team is below.

CANES TERMINATE CONTRACT OF RON FRANCIS
Former general manager relieved of all duties

The Carolina Hurricanes today announced that the team has terminated the contract of President of Hockey Operations Ron Francis. Francis served as the team’s executive vice president and general manager from April 24, 2014 until March 7, 2018.

The team also announced that Joe Nieuwendyk has resigned his position as pro scout and advisor.