The Detroit Red Wings announced a leadership change in hockey operations on Wednesday. Steve Yzerman is stepping down from his role as executive vice president and general manager. He will now serve as a senior advisor to Chris Ilitch, who is the governor and chief executive officer of the team.
Chris Ilitch said the organization is not at the level the team and its fans expect. He will lead the search for a new head of hockey operations. The search will include both current team staff and outside candidates.
Yzerman joined the Red Wings front office in 2019 as general manager. Before that, he played his entire National Hockey League career with the team and later held other executive positions. He is a member of the Hockey Hall of Fame. During his time as general manager, Yzerman focused on drafting and developing young players to rebuild the roster.
The Red Wings have not reached the National Hockey League playoffs in recent seasons. The team has been in a rebuilding phase with an emphasis on long term growth.
The organization expressed appreciation for Yzerman’s work as general manager. It noted that he will stay connected to the franchise in his new advisory role.
This transition takes place during the off-season. The National Hockey League season begins in the fall. The Red Wings are preparing for the next campaign and hope the new leadership structure will support future progress in the league standings.