The Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) champion Minnesota franchise has announced the departure of Natalie Darwitz as general manager following an internal and external review. The decision was confirmed by vice president of hockey operations Jayna Hefford, who stated that the move was deemed necessary for the betterment of the PWHL.
While specific details of the findings were not disclosed, Hefford mentioned that feedback from players and staff played a significant role in the decision-making process. The decision to part ways with Darwitz was described as a difficult but essential step for the league's future.
Hefford emphasized that the decision was the result of a year-long process involving multiple individuals and was not solely based on any potential rift between Darwitz and coach Ken Klee. The PWHL, which oversees all six franchises and their personnel, made the final call to remove Darwitz from her position.
Reports of a strained relationship between Darwitz and Klee, as well as concerns raised by team captain Kendall Coyne Schofield, were mentioned by sources familiar with the situation. The league's human resources department reportedly met with Minnesota players to address issues related to Darwitz's management style.
Despite the timing of the decision being unexpected, coming just after Minnesota's championship victory, Darwitz's tenure as GM has come to an end. Darwitz, a prominent figure in Minnesota hockey, had led the team to its first PWHL title with a victory over Boston in the finals.
Ken Klee, who will continue as the team's coach and interim GM, will oversee Minnesota's selections in the upcoming draft. Darwitz, a former U.S. Olympian and world champion, was inducted into the International Ice Hockey Federation's hall of fame this year.
Hefford acknowledged Darwitz's significant contributions to the PWHL and expressed regret over the decision to part ways. Klee, a former NHL defenseman with coaching experience, took over as Minnesota's coach in December.
Darwitz's departure marks a significant development for the Minnesota franchise and the PWHL as a whole, with the league set to move forward under new leadership following a successful inaugural season.
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