Yzerman Not Ruling Out “Major Shakeup” for Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings will look at everything this summer. From possible trades to better player development, and even front office changes, nothing is off the table, including a major shakeup.

Speaking with the media on Thursday morning, Yzerman discussed what went wrong this season and what needs improvement. He said the team has good players, but also hinted that there will be changes to the roster, with “better players” part of the conversation.

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When asked if there was anything in his roster-building philosophy or the way he’s constructing the lineup that needs to change, he responded:

“Yeah, well—yeah, definitely. For the most part, we’ve been in the process of acquiring young draft picks and prospects, being patient and developing them. We’re starting to see those players work into our lineup on a regular basis.” He added, “As we get better, and as we try to make the playoffs—especially where we were around the trade deadline, kind of close to being a playoff team or fighting for a spot—I think now the focus will be more on how we get this lineup over the edge. The edge being becoming a playoff team.”

What Is Yzerman Looking For?

Yzerman pointed out that the priority is finding a way to score more five-on-five. “That requires talent and scoring ability.” He added that the team needs to be a harder team to play against. “You hear our players talk about that, and my message to them would be: guys, if we need our team to be harder to play against, then you guys have to be harder to play against. Either that, or I’ve got to go get somebody.”

He said he’s looking to build a true checking line or shutdown line and then noted, “depending on what you have in your top nine, you build your fourth line around that. If you don’t have enough production, you need to get some there. If you’re not big enough or hard enough, then you need that. Truthfully, we need a little bit of all of it.”

The Red Wings Still Have Growing to Do

Yzerman said that as he watched the team unravel at the end of the season, he became well aware that growth still needs to happen. “Part of these seasons—these failures, or experiences—are going to make some of these younger players better, if they’re willing, open-minded, and have that growth mindset.”

He added:

“You learn a lot in winning, and you learn a lot in failure. So yes, we need to change some things—but it’s not just about getting rid of everyone. Maybe it’s some very blunt conversations with our players, challenging them to do more and be better. Ultimately, though, we need to surround them with more talent.”

Don’t expect the Red Wings to hit a home run in free agency, however. He’s likely to be more aggressive on the trade front.

“We’ll certainly look at any way we can to improve our team and take that next step. Obviously, we used a first-round pick and a good prospect to acquire a defenseman who helps us for the foreseeable future, and we’re prepared to do that again.”

He added, “With the salary cap going up and in a 32-team league, teams that couldn’t re-sign players in the past are now keeping them. So the free-agent market is thinner. Ultimately, you’re drafting or you’re looking at trades—and yes, we’re absolutely open to doing that.”

Will The Red Wings Make Changes in the Front Office?

The changes coming this summer might not be limited to players. Front-office staff will be reevaluated to see if changes are required there too. “I think everything has to be assessed. We’d be ignorant not to take a really in-depth look at our team and our organization. Do we need major shakeups? Maybe, maybe not—but we have to consider it.”

The changes might not come immediately, but they could be coming. “At this stage, it’s only been about a week since the season ended. You need time to assess where we’re at, how we’re doing things, and what everyone’s role is. I’ve had some conversations with ownership, but ultimately, it’s my responsibility to do what’s right for the organization.”

He added, “I intend to see that through—, but that’s not to say things can’t be changed around here.”

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