The Carolina Hurricanes have named Paul Krepelka vice president of hockey operations, the team announced Thursday.

Krepelka previously served as director of player development with the ECHL's Norfolk Admirals, and worked as a sports agent for 20 years. He will be primarily responsible for handling contract negotiations and other hockey operations matters.

"Paul has been involved in professional hockey for nearly 30 years, developing experience and relationships that will be of great value to the Hurricanes," said Hurricanes owner Tom Dundon.

Despite hiring Krepelka, the Hurricanes are still on the hunt for a general manager.

Don Waddell is currently their interim GM, but with the draft and free agency fast approaching, Carolina has yet to place someone in charge for the long term.

Whoever takes on Ron Francis' former duties could immediately have a lot on their plate, as head coach Bill Peters has until Friday to exercise an opt-out clause in his contract.

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