St. Louis Blues buy out team president John Davidson

St. Louis Blues president John Davidson announced on Friday that he has decided to leave the organization to pursue other opportunities. Davidson had spent the past six seasons rebuilding the team, and the team has agreed to buy out his remaining three years, worth approximately $6 million.

Blues chairman Tom Stillman thanked Davidson for his years of service, which have helped raise the profile of the Blues:

"We would like to thank JD for his commitment and dedication to the Blues organization over the past six seasons. He has been instrumental in revitalizing the Blues franchise and has built a strong foundation for our organization, which will ensure the club's success well into the future. He has also developed one of the top teams in the game today."

Davidson also commented on his time he spent in St. Louis:

"St. Louis has been nothing but outstanding to me and my family and we have enjoyed every minute here. Although we did not accomplish the ultimate goal, I am proud of where this team is on and off the ice, and they are in excellent hands with this management team. St. Louis and the Blue Note will always be in our hearts, and we wish the organization and these great fans nothing but success in the near future."

During his time with the Blues, Davidson helped build a winner, as St. Louis appeared in the 2009 and 2012 postseason. The Blues are also the defending Central Division champion. This was all possible with Davidson's ability to draft key players, such as David Perron and Alex Pietrangelo, as well as making key acquisitions to improve the team.

There is no word yet on a list of candidates who will replace Davidson.