Matthew Caldwell Leaves the Panthers to Lead the Timberwolves and Lynx
The president of business operations for the two-time Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, Matthew Caldwell, will leave his position to take on a 10-year contract as CEO of the Minnesota Timberwolves and the Minnesota Lynx of the WNBA. The official announcement was made on Wednesday. Caldwell will begin overseeing the “daily business operations and high-level strategic initiatives for the Timberwolves, Lynx, and the Iowa Wolves of the G League” starting September 2nd. This is a significant move by the new owners of the Timberwolves and Lynx, Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez, who took full control of those franchises earlier this summer.Caldwell added that the NBA is a much larger global platform. He believes in Marc and Alex’s vision and what they are trying to achieve, seeking to make Minnesota the best in its class. Caldwell joined the Panthers in 2014 as the chief operating officer before being promoted to CEO in 2016.I love the NHL. I have enjoyed hockey and I am a big fan.
Matthew Caldwell
Lore and Rodriguez added that leading their organization into a new innovative era requires an exceptional person at the helm, and Matthew’s proven track record leading the Florida Panthers business is undeniable. They look forward to the remarkable impact that his bold leadership will have on this organization. Caldwell, 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 areas 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 longer. The team will host 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 said the change was somewhat bittersweet, a feeling that was shared by Panthers owner Vincent Viola.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.
Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez
Viola added that it is a tremendously bittersweet moment for her family, but they recognize that this is an exceptional opportunity and a big step in his career. Matt’s impact on their organization has been immeasurable and he leaves with their respect and gratitude.There are very few opportunities I would advise you to pursue, but working with Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore on a global platform like the NBA is at the top of that list.
Vincent Viola
