New Timberwolves and Lynx controlling owners Marc Lore and Alex Rodriguez made their first major hire Wednesday as they reshape business operations, tabbing Matthew Caldwell to serve as the organization’s CEO.
Caldwell comes from the Florida Panthers, where he spent nine years as the NHL franchise’s CEO and president. The Panthers won the last two Stanley Cups.
Caldwell was given a 10-year contract in Minnesota, a massive, long-term commitment for a major decision maker.
“I’m honored and humbled to join the Timberwolves and Lynx organization at such a pivotal moment in its history,” Caldwell said in a statement. “I am inspired by Marc and Alex’s vision and passion for Minnesota basketball and their commitment to excellence. I look forward to making my mark across the organization, and to building a lasting foundation that gives Minnesota basketball fans what they deserve – the best experience in sports, bar none.”
The search that resulted in Caldwell’s hiring was led by TurnKeyZRG, the same firm that led the search that brought athletic director Mark Coyle to the University of Minnesota in 2016.
In Florida, Caldwell oversaw the Panthers’ operations during a time of booming popularity. After winning the championship in 2024, the Panthers transitioned their non-nationally televised games to free, over-the-air television. That’s the type of move Timberwolves’ fans have been yearning for in recent years, though it remains to be seen if Minnesota will make such a maneuver.
In a statement, Panthers owner Vincent Viola said Caldwell “led by example” in Florida by “serving our employees, clients, fans and the South Florida community with passion and professionalism.”
“His determination drove our franchise turnaround and helped instill a culture of excellence, and now he is ready for his next challenge,” Viola said. “There are very few opportunities I would advise him to pursue, but working with Alex Rodriguez and Marc Lore on a global platform like the NBA is at the top of that list.”
Caldwell officially takes his post Sept. 2.
“Our vision is for the Timberwolves and Lynx to set a new standard of excellence in pro sports and we’re confident that Matthew is the leader needed to make that a reality,” Lore and Rodriguez said in a statement. “Leading our organization into an innovative new era requires an exceptional individual at the helm and Matthew’s proven track record leading the business of the Florida Panthers is undeniable. We can’t wait to see the remarkable impact his bold leadership will have on this organization.”
Leave a Reply