With the news that Kevin Cheveldayoff, who had been serving as assistant general manager/senior director, hockey operations for the Chicago Blackhawks, would become the general manager of the new Winnipeg NHL franchise, Blackhawks GM Stan Bowman released the following statement:

"Kevin has informed me he has accepted the Executive Vice-President/General Manager position offered to him by True North Sports & Entertainment. While it is never easy to lose someone of his caliber, it is a great opportunity for him and his family. He was a significant part of our front office and he played an integral role in the success of the Blackhawks throughout the last two years. I want to personally thank him for his dedication to our organization and certainly wish him all the best in Winnipeg."