DETROIT – Steve Yzerman will no longer be the Executive Vice President and General Manager for the Detroit Red Wings, the team announced on Wednesday.
Yzerman will continue working with the Red Wings as senior advisor to Governor and CEO Chris Ilitch.
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The Detroit Red Wings made the announcement of the change in leadership in a press release on July 15.
“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,” said Ilitch. “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.”
“I am sincerely grateful to Chris and the entire Ilitch family,” said Yzerman. “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 will begin a search for their next leader of hockey operations, led by Chris Ilitch. Both internal and external candidates will be considered.
Yzerman will remain in his current role to facilitate the day-to-day of hockey operations until his successor is named.
“Clearly, we are not where we and our fans expect to be as an organization,” said Ilitch. “I’m looking forward to bringing in new leadership to build the championship-caliber organization Hockeytown deserves.”
“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,” said Yzerman. “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.”