Detroit Red Wings Make Major Front Office Change Just Before New Season

The Detroit Red Wings are making a pretty big change just weeks before the new season gets underway.

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The team announced on Tuesday that Shawn Horcoff has been named the interim general manager, taking over the day-to-day responsibilities of running Detroit's hockey operations.

Who Is Shawn Horcoff?

Horcoff is already familiar with the organization. He has been serving as assistant general manager for the Red Wings while also working as general manager of the Grand Rapids Griffins.

What Will Horcoff Handle as Interim GM?

In this role, Horcoff will handle roster decisions, salary cap management, and oversee hockey operations personnel. He'll report directly to Red Wings governor and CEO Chris Ilitch while the team continues its search for a permanent general manager.

Horcoff has spent years working his way through the Red Wings organization. Before becoming assistant GM in 2022, he spent six seasons as Detroit's director of player development and another three seasons as assistant director of player personnel.

The move also means that Steve Yzerman is officially stepping away from the general manager role.

What Happens to Steve Yzerman?

Yzerman will remain with the organization, moving into a new position as a senior adviser to Ilitch.

The Red Wings say the change comes after an evaluation of the team's hockey operations following another disappointing finish last season. Detroit says conversations with potential executives have already been happening for the past two months.

Ilitch said Horcoff has his full support and will have the authority to make whatever decisions he believes are in the organization's best interests this season.

The Red Wings say they are looking for an innovative leader who can bring a new vision to the organization and ultimately help get Detroit back into Stanley Cup contention.