Detroit Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman steps down, Larkin trade saga continues

Steve Yzerman, the former captain and Hall‑Famer, announced on July 15 that he is leaving his role as executive vice‑president and general manager of the Detroit Red Wings. He will remain with the club as a senior advisor to owner and CEO Chris Ilitch while the organization searches for a new head of hockey operations. Yzerman had led Detroit since 2019, a period in which the franchise has missed the playoffs for ten consecutive seasons, the longest active drought in the NHL.

Captain Dylan Larkin, who is under contract through the 2030‑31 season, formally requested a trade earlier this offseason. He provided a short list of destinations that include the Florida Panthers, Minnesota Wild, Vegas Golden Knights and Dallas Stars. Yzerman said the club could not guarantee that a trade would be completed. Trade speculation has focused on a possible exchange of Larkin for Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson, though Robertson’s own contract situation remains unsettled.

Fans and analysts have debated the merits of a Larkin‑Robertson swap, with some calling it unfavorable for Detroit while others see a potential win‑win. The Red Wings have made several roster moves this offseason but have yet to resolve Larkin’s request as they continue the search for new leadership.