Fletcher’s nine-year run with Wild over

The Minnesota Wild have split with longtime general manager Chuck Fletcher after the team’s first-round playoff exit. Wild owner Craig Leipold said Fletcher and his staff “built a winning culture and a perennial playoff team,” but said he feels “it is time for a new approach aimed at delivering a Stanley Cup to the deserving fans of the State of Hockey.” Fletcher was the Wild’s general manager for nine seasons. The Wild have made six straight playoff appearances, but were ousted in five games by Winnipeg this year. Brent Flahr, senior vice-president of hockey operations, will serve as acting GM.