The Toronto Globe and Mail is reporting Thrashers general manager Rick Dudley will not be retained as the franchise heads north for Winnipeg, Manitoba.

It's understandable that a housecleaning of some sort would be in order as the club moves in a (literally) new direction, but Dudley, with four years left on a contract signed just months ago, typically falls under the category of "in-demand" front office personnel.

A highly respected former player, coach, and manager, he spent five seasons assisting then-Blackhawks GM Dale Tallon in Chicago, which followed two years of service with the Panthers in various capacities.

Can't believe this guy remains unemployed for very long.