Steve Yzerman is transitioning from his role as executive vice president and general manager to take on a senior advisory role for Red Wings governor and CEO Chris Illitch, the team announced Wednesday.
The team will begin a search for a new head of hockey operations. In the interim, Yzerman will remain in his current role to help with the day-to-day and facilitate the transition. He will also play an advisory role in the search for a new general manager.
“I am sincerely grateful to Chris and the entire Ilitch family,” Yzerman said in a statement released by the team. “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.”
Yzerman, who played 22 seasons with the Red Wings from 1983 to 2006, took an executive role with the team after retiring. He helped the team to its 11th Stanley Cup in the 2007-08 season after helping it hoist the Cup three times during his playing career.
He left the team for the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2010, taking a role as executive vice president and general manager. He spent eight years with Tamps before returning to the Red Wings in 2019.
“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,” Illitch said in a statement. “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’s No. 19 was retired by the Red Wings in 2007, and he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009. Over his 22-year playing career, he tallied 1,755 points (692 goals, 1,063 assists) in 1,514 games.
