Coyotes issue scathing statement on John Chayka's departure, Chayka responds

After days of rumours regarding a possible split between the Arizona Coyotes and general manager John Chayka, it was revealed Sunday that Chayka has indeed left the team, terminating the three years left on his contract two days ago. Following the news, which was broken by TSN's Pierre LeBrun, the Coyotes ownership finally issued a statement after days of saying nothing other than no comment. The statement made it clear the team is not happy with the situation.

"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."

"The Club will have no further comment on the matter, as the Club remains focused on the opportunity to pursue a Stanley Cup," the release ended.

Chayka, meanwhile, has issued his own statement through Craig Morgan of azcoyotesinsider.com.

"The past four years have been the most enjoyable of my life. In Arizona, I became a husband and a father, while working as hard as possible to make the Coyotes a Stanley Cup contender. I love our players, coaches, staff and fans and I very much wish I could be with the team in Edmonton. Sadly, the situation created by ownership made that an impossibility.

“That's all I intend to say on this matter for now. A fuller, more detailed explanation may be necessary in the near future. Until then, I wish the Coyotes good luck in Edmonton, and thank every member of Our Pack for the support shown to Kathryn, our daughter and myself over the years. Also, I want to congratulate Steve Sullivan as he steps into a new role. We've worked side-by-side for years. He is a great person and a terrific hockey mind.”

Morgan's story quotes a source from inside the Coyotes organization calling Chayka "a liar and a quitter."

Arizona has named former NHLer Steve Sullivan as the team's interim GM. Sullivan has served as a development coach and assistant GM with the organization. He played 1011 games in the NHL with New Jersey, Toronto, Chicago, Nashville, Pittsburgh and Phoenix (now Arizona).

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