Caldwell joined the Panthers in 2014 as chief operating officer before being promoted to chief executive officer in 2016.“I love the NHL. I enjoy hockey and I’m a big fan,” Caldwell stated. “But the NBA is a much bigger and global platform. I really believe in Marc and Alex and their vision and what they are trying to do. They are trying to make Minnesota the best in class.”
Matthew Caldwell
“Our vision is for the Timberwolves and Lynx to set a new standard of excellence in professional sports, and we are confident that Matthew is the leader needed to make that a reality,” Lore and Rodriguez said in a joint statement. “Leading our organization into a new era of innovation requires an exceptional person at the helm, and Matthew’s proven track record of leading the business of the Florida Panthers is undeniable. We can’t wait to see the remarkable impact his bold leadership will have on this organization.”
Marc Lore and Alex RodriguezCaldwell, who served in the Army, is a graduate of West Point, earned MBA and law degrees from Northwestern, and worked on Wall Street for Goldman Sachs, played an important role in many parts of the Panthers’ transformation in recent years, especially off the ice. In September, the Panthers extended their operating agreement with Broward County for five more years, ensuring that the team remains in the South Florida market until 2033 and likely much further. The team is hosting an outdoor game at the Miami Marlins’ stadium for the first time this season, has a long waiting list for season tickets, and opened a new practice facility at the War Memorial in Fort Lauderdale two years ago. Caldwell commented that the change was somewhat bittersweet, a feeling also shared by Panthers owner Vincent Viola.“There are very few opportunities I would advise him to pursue, but working with Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore on a global platform like the NBA is at the top of that list,” Viola said. “It’s tremendously bittersweet for our family, but we recognize that this is an exceptional opportunity and a big step in his career. Matt’s impact on our organization has been immeasurable and he leaves with our respect and gratitude.”
Vincent Viola
