Francis out as Canes GM, now president of hockey ops

The Carolina Hurricanes have begun searching for a new general manager after moving Ron Francis -- who held the post for four years -- to president of hockey operations, the team announced Wednesday.

"Since I took control of the team, I've had a good chance to be around and assess the operations," team owner Tom Dundon said. "There are a lot of good people working in the organization, but I feel that a change in direction is needed when it comes to hockey personnel decisions.

"Ron is a smart and talented hockey man. I am glad that he will continue to be a part of the team, serving in this new role."

The new GM will report directly to Dundon, who bought 61 percent of the team from outgoing owner Peter Karmanos for $420 million in January, according to Forbes.

Francis, 55, has spent 12 years in the Hurricanes' front office serving in a variety of capacities. During his playing career, he appeared in parts of 16 seasons with the franchise, including 10 campaigns when it was still the Hartford Whalers. He is the club's all-time leader in many categories, including games played, goals and assists.

Carolina has gone 2-6-2 in its last 10 games, slipping to sixth in the Metropolitan Division and 10th overall in the Eastern Conference.

--Field Level Media