Coyotes come out with blistering statement after GM John Chayka quits

John Chayka seemed to be on his way out as GM, but the Coyotes’ statement on his resignation was Arizona sunburn-style blistering.

The Arizona Coyotes are preparing for the playoffs for the first time since 2012, which can be seen as a testament to the work of general manager/president of hockey operations John Chayka. But on Sunday, Chayka resigned from his position, effective immediately.

Chayka appeared to have one foot out the door. Recent contract negotiations with looming free agent Taylor Hall did not include his presence. According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, Chayka’s relationship with the team fell apart with his exploration of a new opportunity. The opportunity is not with another NHL team, and other than the idea it’s a different professional opportunity, it’s unclear if it’s hockey- or even sports-related.

Chayka became the youngest general manager in major league sports history when the Coyotes hired him at age 26 in May of 2016. As a co-founder of Stathletes, Inc., he was easily seen as someone who would be a modern, analytics-driven GM.

Chayka may have been phased out, or maybe he wanted to be phased out as he eyed an exit from the Coyotes. Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic reported Chayka had three years left on his contract, and had terminated his deal on Friday.

Chayka gave a statement to Craig Morgan of AZ Coyotes Insider, citing a “situation with ownership,” which made it impossible for him to join the team in Edmonton for the playoffs. In July of 2019, Alex Meruelo became the new owner of the Coyotes.

The team has countered Chayka’s claim, with their own statement that can best be called blistering.

“John Chayka has quit as the General Manager and President of Hockey Operations of the Arizona Coyotes.

“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 post-season play for the first time since 2012. 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.”

Assistant general manager Steve Sullivan will take over as interim general manager. The Coyotes will start their best-of-five qualifying round series against the Nashville Predators on Aug. 2.