Wings' Yzerman steps down as GM, search begins for replacement

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Steve Yzerman is out as Red Wings GM.

The team announced on Wednesday morning that he's stepping down as GM and a search has begun to replace Yzerman for running the team's hockey operations. Internal candidates, and others from outside the organization, will be considered.

The Wings said Yzerman will transition from his role as executive vice-president and general manager and will continue to be part of the organization as a senior advisor to Chris Ilitch, governor and chief executive officer.

"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. "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."

In a statement, Yzerman said "I am sincerely grateful to Chris and the entire Ilitch family. 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.

"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. 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."

Yzerman will remain in his current role to facilitate the day-to-day of hockey operations in the short-term and ensure a seamless transition, the Wings' release said. Yzerman will serve in an advisory capacity on the search committee for a new hockey operations leader; the search committee will include Ryan Gustafson, Ilitch Sports and Entertainment president and chief executive officer, along with other leaders.

"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."

How this development will affect the future of captain Dylan Larkin remains to be seen.

Larkin asked for a trade after this past season, with his sagging relationship with Yzerman a key reason.

This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Wings' Yzerman steps down as GM, search begins for replacement

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