NHL organization launches investigation of general manager that involved fifteen team members

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Sam Walker
December 15, 2023 (0:13)

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Minnesota Wild insider Michael Russo has given an update on the recent dismissal of Wild assistant GM Chris O'Hearn, shedding light on a more complicated situation. Russo reports that both O'Hearn and Wild GM Bill Guerin are being investigated for alleged abuse, leading to O'Hearn's firing. Although it appears Guerin has been cleared, the NHL is still looking into the details, maintaining an ongoing investigation into his actions.

Russo provides more insight into the situation:

Bill Guerin, the president of hockey operations and general manager for the Minnesota Wild, is the main focus of an investigation following a human resources complaint about verbal abuse in the workplace. The incident occurred in late November and was reported to the team's HR department, prompting an external law firm to investigate. Over 15 members of the organization were interviewed during this process.

According to two team sources, the investigation into Guerin's alleged behavior has concluded, with findings delivered to upper management and ownership earlier this week. The Wild management reportedly determined that Guerin did not commit a fireable offense.

Throughout the investigation, Guerin was noticeably absent from the NHL's Board of Governors meeting in Seattle and the Wild's four-game road trip to western Canada and Seattle. This was notable, especially given that it coincided with new coach John Hynes' first extended road trip with the team.

Despite numerous attempts, Guerin has not responded to requests for comment on the matter. The Wild, in a statement to The Athletic, declined to disclose details of the investigations but emphasized the team's commitment to its code of conduct.

The employee who filed the complaint, identified as Andrew Heydt, the Wild's director of team operations and player relations, has been absent from work recently. Heydt, who has held the position for a decade, oversees team travel, logistics, and player and alumni relations, interacting with Guerin regularly in his role. The Wild's statement concludes by stating they have taken appropriate steps to address the matters raised and will not comment further.