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HERE
It was announced via Twitter from the Winnipeg Jets’ director of communications
Scott Brown that the general manger Kevin Chevaldayoff had received and signed a contract extension. As per club policy not terms were released.
For most the announcement, more so the timing, struck many as confusing. Chevy has just entered the third year of his deal with True North Sports and Entertainment, the parent company of the Winnipeg Jets. He has guided the team through a brief off-season of upheaval in 2011-2012 and a lockout shortened season in 2012-13 and the Jets have yet to play a meaningful game this season.
Why now?
That is the question which should be examined and answered. Let’s do our best.
Chevy was granted an extension because TNSE is a believer in his work and progress as GM.
Chevy was granted an extension because TNSE wants to create consistency and stability within the key position of guiding the hockey team.
TNSE was satisfied with the drafting, player management, contract allocation, and roster moves thus far into the original contract with Chevy and offered an extension.
Chevy went to TNSE as per agreement after the midterm point of his existing contract and sought out an extension.
Whatever the reason, the Jets have made a deal to continue the strategic direction with Kevin Chevaldayoff as the man at the helm of the franchise. There are other assets in place to deal with the bigger picture issues with TNSE such as Jim Ludlow and Norva Riddell but Chevy remains the most public figure in the corporation’s key asset the Winnipeg Jets.
Now before there seemed to be any pressing reason to make the decision on his position TNSE has decided to continue with Chevy as that figure. One thing that should be clear is that the Jets as a hockey franchise is far more diverse than what happens on the ice. While the GM is responsible for the players who end up competing, it is but one item on a list that is far longer than most would expect. I’m not privy to what is on that list but nor is any one else as far as I am aware. So for those of us speculating based on what we see day in and day out from the Jets and Chevy are operating on limited information.
Take what you will from this move but ask this, is there any fair argument as to why Chevy should not be extended? I’d say ‘no’ but is there any reason to extend him nearly 3 years from the conclusion of his existing deal? I’d also answer ‘no’ to that so somewhere in between lies the reason and in due course we’ll undoubtedly know it. Then we will have something to discuss.
Winnipeg Jets Blogger •Winnipeg Jets Writer • 
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