Uncertainty Over Next Season Leads Stars To Cut 12 Staffers

Stars Blame Uncertainty Of CBA For Slashing 12 Positions

The Stars downsized their staff by 12 Thursday, "citing the uncertain climate for a new [CBA] as one of the reasons for the decision," according to Richard Durrett of the DALLAS MORNING NEWS. Stars President Jim Lites does not "expect any more cuts between now and training camp." The affected employees worked mainly in game operations or lower-level positions "without much tenure." Some were told they probably would not return when play resumes. Stars Owner Tom Hicks provided a "severance package and health benefits through the severance period" based on seniority. Lites said that if part of next season is lost to the potential lockout, "every upper-level manager would take a pay cut." Lites added that the club will evaluate personnel and "make decisions based on how negotiations were going this summer" (DALLAS MORNING NEWS, 5/7). Lites: "It was a double-edged sword: The lack of a long playoff run and the uncertainty of next season eliminated some positions. There is always some fallout from not playing as long as you should" (FT. WORTH STAR-TELEGRAM, 5/7).