The Detroit Red Wings‘ attempt to pursue Zach Werenski was one of the factors behind Steve Yzerman’s departure, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman. Friedman said the failed pursuit caught the attention of Detroit ownership because Werenski did not view the Red Wings as a team he wanted to join.
Werenski, who currently plays for the Columbus Blue Jackets, became available in trade talks during the offseason. At that time, he was linked with several teams, including the Toronto Maple Leafs, but Detroit was not on his list.
Friedman discussed the situation on the Ozzy & Keats Podcast. He said the Red Wings inquired about Werenski but were told a deal was not going to happen.
“I really do think the bigger thing is that when Werenski, for a time, looked like he was available. Werenski indicated he might go to Toronto, but Detroit wasn’t on his list. I believe the Red Wings, once that got out, I think they inquired, and I think they were kind of told no, that wouldn’t be happening. I think that played a bigger role into it. […] When the Red Wings realized they were not a destination of choice at that time, I think that was a real eye-opener for the organization,” Friedman said.
Steve Yzerman left his GM position in July after seven seasons in charge of Detroit. The Red Wings said Yzerman would remain with the organization as senior adviser to governor and CEO Chris Ilitch after giving up his executive vice president and GM roles. Detroit is now looking for a new head of hockey operations.
Steve Yzerman leaves behind a long history with the Red Wings
Steve Yzerman’s seven seasons as Detroit’s GM were only one part of his relationship with the Red Wings. Long before returning to the front office in 2019, he had spent more than two decades as one of the franchise’s most important players.
Yzerman was selected fourth overall by Detroit in 1983 and stayed with the team until retiring in 2006. He won three Stanley Cups as captain and finished his playing career with 692 goals and 1,755 points. His 1,755 points are second in franchise history behind Gordie Howe, while his No. 19 is one of the numbers retired by the Red Wings.
After eight seasons as Tampa Bay’s GM, Yzerman returned to Detroit in 2019 to run the franchise he had spent most of his career with. During his time in Tampa Bay, he helped put together the group that later won consecutive Stanley Cups.
Detroit did not reach the playoffs during Steve Yzerman’s seven seasons as GM. His departure prompted Ilitch to recognize what Yzerman had meant to the organization over the years.
“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 in a statement.
Steve Yzerman also reflected on his time with Detroit.
“This organization has given me incredible opportunities, from my time as a player to the privilege of returning as general manager,” Yzerman said. “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.”
Shawn Horcoff is currently handling the GM duties and has full authority over trades, salary-cap moves and roster decisions.
Edited by Sonali Verma