Horcoff named Red Wings interim GM, replaces Yzerman

Shawn Horcoff was named the interim general manager of the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday.

Horcoff replaces Steve Yzerman, who was removed from his role as executive president and GM on July 15, after serving as GM since April 19, 2019.

Horcoff, who will turn 48 on Thursday, has been with the Red Wings since 2016-17 when he was hired as director of player development. He has been an assistant GM as well as GM of the Red Wings' American Hockey League affiliate at Grand Rapids since the 2021-22 season.

"As our process continues to find the best possible leader for Red Wings hockey operations, I'm appreciative of Shawn for stepping up to serve in this capacity," Red Wings governor and  CEO Chris Ilitch said. "His knowledge of our organization and range of experience allows us to operate with a clear decision-maker in place for the season ahead, while maintaining our commitment to carry out a thorough, methodical search process on our own timeline. Shawn has my complete support, and the authority to make decisions in the best interests of our organization.

"Our search has attracted significant interest in the head of hockey operations position from respected leaders across the industry, and several of those candidates, including Shawn, remain under consideration for the permanent role. Identifying and hiring the right leader is essential to our franchise's future, and we remain committed to being deliberate and thorough in this process. We're grateful for our players, staff, and fans for their support as we work toward this pivotal hire."

A former center, Horcoff was selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the fourth round (No. 99) of the 1998 NHL Draft and had 511 points (186 goals, 325 assists) in 1,008 regular-season games for the Oilers, Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks from 2000-16, and 30 points (11 goals, 19 assists) in 46 playoff games.

"Shawn Horcoff has been instrumental to our organization, allowing us to maintain our high standards while conducting a thorough search rather than working against a deadline," the Red Wings said in a statement. "His deep knowledge of our players, contracts, and organization positioned him to lead us during this period. Moving forward, he will oversee our hockey operations with full authority and our complete confidence, consistent with how we've empowered every leader in this role.

"He's already deeply engaged in the important work ahead as camp begins, having been part of every conversation over the past months. He continues forward with full knowledge of our direction and the decisions already in motion – and remains a candidate for the permanent role."

The Red Wings (41-31-10) missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the 10th consecutive season after a team-record 25 straight appearances. On Jan. 25, they were 32-16-5 and tied with the Carolina Hurricanes for the best record in the East. They finished the season 9-15-5.

On Sept. 11, the team announced that Dylan Larkin would no longer be captain. Larkin had requested a trade shortly after the season, but said he would attend training camp while the team transitions to new leadership.

"A thorough evaluation of our hockey operations following this past season's disappointing finish led to discussions with Steve Yzerman and a determination that a change was necessary," the Red Wings said. "This decision was driven by our need for a new vision in hockey leadership while preserving organizational continuity through the offseason and stands independent of other matters. We're grateful for Steve's invaluable contributions and his transition to senior adviser."