FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Matthew Caldwell will leave his position as president of business operations for the two-time Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers to accept a 10-year contract as CEO of the Minnesota Timberwolves and the WNBA’s Minnesota Lynx.The official announcement was made on Wednesday. Caldwell will begin overseeing daily business operations and high-level strategic initiatives for the Timberwolves, Lynx, and the Iowa Wolves of the G League on September 2nd.This is an important decision by the new owners of the Timberwolves and Lynx, Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez, who took full control of these 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 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
In a joint statement, Lore and Rodriguez mentioned that the organization needs an exceptional individual at the helm to lead a new innovative era. They highlighted Caldwell’s proven track record leading the Florida Panthers business.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 several areas of the Panthers’ recovery in recent years, especially off the ice.In September, the Panthers extended their operating agreement with Broward County for five more years, ensuring the team remains in the South Florida market until 2033 and likely much further. 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 expressed that the change was bittersweet, a feeling that was also 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 bittersweet for his family, but they recognize that it is an exceptional opportunity and a big step in Caldwell’s career. He highlighted Matt’s immeasurable impact on the organization and that 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
