Dylan Larkin and Todd McLellan could soon be working under a reshaped Detroit Red Wings front office as a management search takes shape.
Detroit's ownership is reportedly leading the search, with one possible structure splitting authority between a president of hockey operations and an analytics-driven general manager focused on personnel.
Steve Yzerman remains Detroit's general manager, making the search far more than a routine addition to the hockey department. If that structure lands, the chain of command could change at the top.
The timing is easy to understand after Detroit finished 41-31-10 and missed the playoffs. The Red Wings also ended the season with a -17 goal differential.
Their closing stretch added pressure. Detroit went 2-6-2 over its final 10 games and finished sixth in the Atlantic Division.
Larkin produced 67 points in 74 games, giving Detroit a proven centerpiece while bigger organizational questions move above the locker room.
" Helene St. James: Re Red Wings: Owner Chris Ilitch is fronting the search for new management, which could well end up being split between a president of hockey operations...and an analytics-driven general manager who handles personnel - Detroit Free Press (8/3) "
-
Red Wings' GM search takes major turn as new management structure emerges
The notable part of the reported plan is the division of responsibility. A president could oversee the full hockey operation while a separate GM owns the day-to-day personnel file.
That would be a clear shift from the single-leader model tied to Yzerman. It would also put more weight on data, roster evaluation and decision-making around the NHL club.
For McLellan, that matters immediately. Coaches need a clear line to the front office on roster construction, call-ups, scratches and what type of team they're being asked to build.
The Red Wings scored 241 goals last season but allowed 258. That gap helps explain why this story is about more than changing titles.
Detroit already has core pieces in place, including Lucas Raymond, who led the club with 76 points. The next management group would inherit a roster that still needs to turn individual production into a better team result.
The biggest question now is whether the search ends with a new layer above Yzerman, a new GM beside that president, or a broader reset that changes who controls personnel.
What matters is that Detroit is reportedly examining the structure itself. For a franchise pushing to get back into the playoff picture, that can reshape every decision before puck drop.
Should Detroit replace Steve Yzerman as general manager?
Also read on Markerzone.com:
Mike Babcock completes head-turning first decision as head coach involving Connor McDavid
