Arizona General Manager John Chayka, who turned the Coyotes into playoff contenders in four years, stepped down Sunday and was labeled a quitter in a team statement.
He exits a week before the Coyotes' Stanley Cup qualifier series is to begin. Assistant GM Steve Sullivan will serve as interim general manager.
"The club is disappointed in his actions and his timing as the Coyotes prepare to enter the NHL's hub city of Edmonton, where the team will begin postseason play for the first time since 2012," the team said in a statement. "Chayka has chosen to quit on a strong and competitive team, a dedicated staff, and the Arizona Coyotes fans, the greatest fans in the NHL."
Chayka's relationship with new owner Alex Meruelo began to deteriorate when he asked for permission to pursue a non-NHL opportunity, according to Sportsnet. Chayka reportedly was left out of negotiations with players recently.
News of Chayka's departure came the day the Coyotes were scheduled to leave for Edmonton. Arizona opens against the Predators next Sunday.
"I very much wish I could be with the team in Edmonton," he said in a statement. "Sadly, the situation created by ownership made that an impossibility."
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