Detroit's GM search takes major turn as training camp approaches

Dylan Larkin and Todd McLellan are still waiting for clarity as Detroit's GM search reportedly has not reached the interview stage.

Bob Duff reports the Red Wings have not yet held interviews for their vacant general manager position, showing how early the process remains.

That is a striking development with training camp approaching. Detroit has spent weeks surrounded by candidate speculation without apparently moving into formal conversations.

The delay doesn't mean ownership lacks a plan. It does mean the Red Wings are taking their time with a hire that will immediately inherit several major roster decisions.

Larkin sits at the top of that list. Detroit's captain is expected to report to camp, but his future has remained under scrutiny after a summer dominated by trade questions.

McLellan also has to prepare his lineup without knowing who will eventually control personnel decisions above the bench. That uncertainty can affect everything from trades to roster cuts.

Detroit can afford patience if it leads to the right hire. But every week that passes brings the next general manager closer to arriving after camp has already begun.

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Red Wings' GM search takes stunning turn with training camp approaching

The next executive won't be walking into a quiet job. Larkin's situation, Detroit's direction and the shape of the top six will demand attention immediately.

There is also the question of how much of the previous front-office vision remains. Steve Yzerman's departure opened the door to a different approach, but that change cannot fully take shape without a successor.

McLellan can handle the hockey side in the meantime. He can build lines, evaluate the blue line and set expectations inside the locker room.

What he cannot do is settle long-term organizational questions that belong to the next general manager.

The lack of interviews also means any candidate being labeled a favorite should be treated carefully. If formal meetings haven't started, the process is still wide open.

That may be exactly what Detroit wants, especially after a major management change. Ownership has every reason to examine different backgrounds rather than rush toward the first available name.

But the clock is becoming part of the story. The Red Wings wanted a fresh direction, and according to Duff, they have not yet reached the stage where candidates are sitting across the table.

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