Seattle NHL team names Ricky Olczyk assistant GM

Ron Francis is bringing in a familiar face to help lead the NHL's newest franchise.

Seattle's expansion team named Ricky Olczyk assistant general manager, the club announced Tuesday.

The 49-year-old's responsibilities will include managing the salary cap and contracts, overseeing player transactions, and advising Francis - Seattle's GM - as part of the scouting team.

Olczyk, the younger brother of former NHLer and longtime broadcaster Ed Olczyk, served as assistant GM of the Carolina Hurricanes under Francis from 2014-18 after occupying the assistant GM role with the Edmonton Oilers from 2009-14.

Last season, Ricky Olczyk was a pro scout for the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Seattle's hockey operations department now boasts three employees: Francis, Olczyk, and director of hockey administration Alexandra Mandrycky, who specializes in analytics.