What Happens If Detroit Misses the Playoffs?
Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet recently discussed the future of Steve Yzerman as the General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings during an appearance on Sirius XM NHL Network Radio’s Morning Skate, alongside Gord Stellick and Scott Laughlin.
Some Red Wings Players Reportedly Feel Steve Yzerman is Too Patient
Gord Stellick posed the question of the Red Wings’ fate if they miss the playoffs once more, asking whether it would be viewed as another year to rebuild or a significant setback. Friedman, after a humorous deflection, shared his insights.
He noted Yzerman’s reputation as a “great poker player” who rarely shows his hand, but expressed his certainty that Yzerman is “hugely frustrated” by the team’s performance. Friedman observed that despite another recent loss, the silver lining was that other struggling teams in the Eastern Conference also lost, mitigating the immediate impact. However, he highlighted the team’s visible tension, suggesting this struggle under pressure is particularly vexing for Yzerman, who consistently thrived in high-stakes situations as a player—a sharp contrast to the team’s current difficulties.
Steve Yzerman May Need a More Aggressive Approach for Detroit’s Success
Friedman then raised a speculative point, having heard murmurs, that Yzerman might consider relinquishing the GM chair to another person, allowing them a greater influence on the organization. He mentioned Yzerman will turn 61 in May, but emphasized his enduring work ethic, stating he’s a “grinder” who “does not cut corners.” Friedman pondered whether Yzerman might contemplate delegating more responsibility, granting someone else a more prominent voice in the team’s direction, rather than continuing to handle both executive roles himself.
The Detroit Red Wings are currently locked in a fierce battle for a final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. A challenging March, marked by a 5-7-2 record and key injuries to players like captain Dylan Larkin, has complicated their push. This season carries immense weight for the Original Six franchise, as a decade-long absence from the playoffs is a significant concern.
Past frustrations have surfaced, including Larkin’s public comments last year questioning Yzerman’s inaction at the trade deadline. Yzerman, a fierce competitor, responded by stating that the players should have performed well enough to not require external help, underscoring his belief in internal accountability.
Yzerman brought in Todd McLellan to guide the team, but questions persist regarding player morale and the handling of younger talent, especially as the league trends towards youth while Detroit seems to lean more on veterans.
Yzerman consistently reiterates that his team is still developing and that its time is “coming.” However, if Detroit misses the playoffs again, particularly after narrowly being eliminated in 2024 due to tiebreakers, patience will undoubtedly wear thin. A playoff berth is now deemed essential, and if the team falls short, ownership may need to consider moving Yzerman into a different executive role rather than outright terminating his contract, given his legendary status and contributions to the franchise.
