Red Wings announce Steve Yzerman will step down as general manager
Steve Yzerman will leave his role as Detroit Red Wings general manager and transition to a senior advisory position while the team begins a search for new hockey operations leadership.
The Detroit Red Wings said on Wednesday that longtime executive Steve Yzerman will step down as general manager and move into a senior adviser role to team governor and CEO Chris Ilitch. The organization will consider internal and external candidates for the vacant hockey-operations head and Yzerman will remain involved in day-to-day operations during the transition, serving on the search committee.
Ilitch praised Yzerman’s contributions, stating, "Steve’s lifetime of contributions to the Red Wings has meant more to this franchise than words can truly express, and I have the highest level of respect for his continued commitment to our organization." Yzerman expressed gratitude, saying he is "extremely proud to remain part of this great franchise" and that his commitment to the team and community will not waver.
The move comes as the Red Wings have missed the playoffs since 2016 and face questions about the future of captain Dylan Larkin, who previously requested a trade. Yzerman, who previously served as GM of the Tampa Bay Lightning, oversaw the recent NHL Entry Draft before the announcement.