We received a tip on this news late last night but wanted to wait until we received confirmation. The Dallas Stars just confirmed this move to us and today, Joe Nieuwendyk acknowledged in Traverse City that the team has "parted ways" with the former Director of Amateur Scouting. Bernhardt was let go following a face to face meeting. Nieuwendyk didn't get into specifics, however, and gave Mark Stepneski of ESPN Dallas a quick quote:
"It's a situation that is difficult," said Nieuwendyk, who is in Traverse City for the NHL Prospect Tournament. "I think Tim has done some wonderful things here over the years and has his fingerprints are on a lot of things. However, we've just had a difference of opinion and I think that is where I'll leave it."
It's unfortunate, as the Stars amateur scouting department had brought us not only some great draft picks but also suprises along the lines of Brenden Dillon and Matt Fraser. Les Jackson, former GM and current Director of Scouting and Player Development will apparently take on Bernhardt's responsibilities for now.
There's no doubt that Bernhardt will quickly be able to find a job elsewhere and we wish him luck on his future endeavors. He has been instrumental in building an exciting prospects system and the future is certainly looking bright in large part of what he has accomplished for the Stars.