Steve Yzerman's status with the Detroit Red Wings just got a lot more complicated, and it's not the story most expected.
Elliotte Friedman said Monday on 32 Thoughts that he doesn't believe Yzerman resigned from his position.
"Initially I thought that maybe Steve Yzerman resigned, I don't believe that was the case, I believe the Red Wings made the choice to move on," Friedman said.
That's a significant distinction. A resignation and a front office deciding to part ways with a franchise icon are two very different stories.
Reports dating back to April had suggested Yzerman might consider stepping down and taking on a different role, according to NHL Rumour Report.
Detroit finished last season 41-31-10, good for 92 points but a rough finish, dropping eight of their final ten games to close the year.
" Elliotte Friedman: Initially I thought that maybe Steve Yzerman resigned; I don't believe that was the case, I believe the Red Wings made the choice to move on - 32 Thoughts (8/25)
____
NHLRR: Reports dating back to April suggested Yzerman might consider resigning and taking a smaller role; instead he was removed, but does remain in the organization "
-
Steve Yzerman reportedly never chose to leave the Red Wings
That fade down the stretch matters here. Front offices don't usually make franchise-altering decisions about their GM after a strong finish.
Yzerman took over in Detroit in 2019 and has overseen a lengthy rebuild that's produced mixed results, flashes of promise mixed with plenty of frustration.
This comes at an especially awkward moment for the organization. Dylan Larkin's trade request is still unresolved, and Alex DeBrincat's own extension has taken on new urgency.
If Detroit really is moving on from the man who's run the front office for years, that's two massive contract situations now sitting on someone else's desk.
Friedman didn't offer further detail on what comes next, or who might step into a larger front office role in Yzerman's place.
This is still developing, and the picture Friedman painted raises more questions than it answers about who's actually steering Detroit's decisions right now.
For a franchise already juggling a captain who wants out, adding uncertainty at the GM level is the last thing this roster needed heading into camp.
Should the Red Wings have kept Steve Yzerman running hockey operations?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Scheifele could be next Jets star out the door after Hellebuyck
