EliteProspects/DLLS Stars/Shap Shots’ Sean Shapiro offers several cogent observations from Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman’s press conference today:
It’s about building a Stanley Cup contender, not a playoff team
This isn’t news, we’ve heard Yzerman speak multiple times about how he wants to build a team that competes for the Stanley Cup, not one that simply makes the playoffs.
It’s also hard to ignore the fact that this franchise has now never gone this long without a playoff appearance. Yzerman was asked about that multiple times, about the pressure and where things are, he approached each answer as he typically has — he sees progress, rebuilds take time, and one of his new favorite topics, how he sees things different than the media that only cares about getting into the postseason.
One reporter, particular, has had the same back-and-forth with Yzerman in each of his past three media settings if my notes are correct.
“We know they’re are expectations and the hopes for our fan base and for the media as well, but continue with the process and look for opportunities,” Yzerman said. “As I said, to expedite it, whether that’s through trade or free agency. But we’ll continue with doing what we have to do. And ultimately, my job is to do what’s right for the organization, and I will continue to do that.”
Yzerman also spoke about internal growth and the addition of John Gibson, how players like Simon Edvinsson and Marco Kasper will take strides, and how that should help with the long-term goal.
Continued (paywall)
