Franchise legend Steve Yzerman’s tenure as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings ended abruptly on Wednesday.
The team announced Yzerman is transitioning from GM and executive vice president into a new role as a senior advisor to governor and CEO Chris Ilitch.
“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,” Ilitch said. “We are thankful for Steve’s hard work and dedication as General Manager and are grateful knowing Steve will remain where he belongs — here with the Red Wings family.”
Yzerman, 61, a Hall of Fame forward and longtime captain who won three Stanley Cups during 22 seasons with Detroit (1983-2004, 2005-06), returned to the Red Wings as GM in April 2019.
“I am sincerely grateful to Chris and the entire Ilitch family,” Yzerman said. “This organization has given me incredible opportunities, from my time as a player to the privilege of returning as general manager. I’ve appreciated every experience throughout the years, and I’m extremely proud to remain part of this great franchise.”
The Red Wings are searching for a new leader of hockey operations. The person who gets hired will have to deal with, among other things, captain Dylan Larkin’s request for a trade after 11 years in Detroit.
“Clearly, we are not where we and our fans expect to be as an organization,” Ilitch said. “I’m looking forward to bringing in new leadership to build the championship-caliber organization Hockeytown deserves.”
After a strong start, Detroit finished 41-31-10 in 2025-26 and missed the playoffs for the 10th consecutive season. The Red Wings have not won a Stanley Cup playoff series since the 2012-13 season.
“My commitment to the Red Wings and this community will never waver, and I look forward to supporting the organization in whatever role is needed to achieve our collective goals,” Yzerman said. “I want to thank our passionate fanbase for their support, as they are what makes Detroit and the entire state of Michigan a very special place in the hockey world.”
One of nine Red Wings to have his number retired, Yzerman recorded 692 goals and 1,755 points in 1,514 games with the franchise. He owns the team records for most goals (65) and points (155) in a season.
He was Detroit’s vice president of hockey operations from 2006-10 before serving as general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning from 2010-18. He was the NHL General Manager of the Year for 2014-15.
