Don Waddell steps down, Eric Tulsky named Carolina Hurricanes interim GM

Raleigh, N.C. — Carolina Hurricanes president and general manager Don Waddell has resigned from his position.

The Hurricanes made the announcement on Friday afternoon. The news comes as recent reports around the NHL indicated the Hurricanes granted permission for Waddell to speak with other teams about front office openings.

“This morning, I spoke with Tom and informed him that I have come to the decision that now is the time for me to move to the next chapter of my career,” said Waddell in a release from the team. “I have loved my experiences in the Triangle over the past 10 years, and together with a strong team, on and off the ice, we have accomplished many great victories. I am grateful for the support I have received from so many loyal Caniacs. This organization is in strong, capable hands and well-positioned for the future.”

Eric Tulsky has been named interim general manager while the team searches for a permanent general manager.

This summer was expected to be one of change for the team and Friday's news follows that theme. The roster carries numerous unrestricted free agents, including center Jake Guentzel and center Teuvo Teräväinen.

The NHL salary cap is expected to rise to $87.7 million next season, up from $83.5 million this season. The Hurricanes have about $27.3 million in projected cap space, according to CapFriendly.com.

Waddell joined the Hurricanes as president on July 1, 2014 and has been the general manager since May of 2018. He had just spoken with the media on Monday about the multi-year extension of coach Rod Brind'Amour and the upcoming summer free agent signing period. Previously, he was general manager of the Atlanta Thrashers and a scout with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Carolina won at least one round in the Stanley Cup Playoffs during each of his six seasons in charge of hockey operations.

Darren Yorke will support Tulsky with managerial duties while continuing in his role as assistant general manager. Tulsky has spent 10 seasons with the Hurricanes, originally joining the organization as a consultant in 2014.