I have a theory that one of the reasons Steve Yzerman “exited stage left” as the Red Wings’ GM is that he kept his circle of advisors too small, backed himself into a corner, and didn’t ask or know how to ask for help backing out of said corner.
To me, the small circle of advisors probably became an echo chamber, and once you’ve committed yourself to a certain kind of rebuild, and you’ve made a some signing mistakes and have been bit in the ass by free agent departures (Shayne Gostisbehere is the one that stands out the most to me, given how integral he was to the Carolina Hurricanes’ Cup run)…
Yzerman just didn’t seem to know how to adapt to the realities of business in the “new NHL.” Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman suggested as much on both the NHL Network yesterday (link to a 12-minute video) and on Sportsnet itself (6 minute video).
This morning, the Hockey Writers’ Tony Wolak argues that the franchise needs to utilize the regime change to modernize their front office’s business and analytic practices:
One of the clearest opportunities for improvement is expanding how hockey decisions are made.
Across the NHL, front offices have become increasingly specialized. Successful organizations rely on executives with expertise in professional scouting, amateur scouting, analytics, salary cap management, player development, sports science, and contract strategy to contribute to decision-making. Detroit has largely operated differently.
According to a source, Yzerman tended to close ranks rather than relying on a broad group of advisors when evaluating trades, free agents, and organizational strategy. This is why internal candidates should be considered – they likely operate differently than the closed-off Yzerman. Regardless, the next general manager should continue expanding Detroit’s hockey operations staff and foster an environment where ideas flow freely across departments.
In addition, there’s room to grow in contract and salary cap evaluation. Reports over the years have suggested Yzerman has generally been reluctant to hand out massive contracts, a philosophy reflected in lengthy negotiations before Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond ultimately signed long-term extensions.
Detroit’s next general manager must recognize that market value is changing. Salaries are going to rise – Leo Carlsson’s offer sheet is clear evidence of that. Given this, the Red Wings need to have a more flexible perspective on the salary cap.
Finally, Detroit should become more aggressive in identifying opportunities that other organizations are reluctant to pursue. Successful organizations separate themselves by exploiting market inefficiencies and embracing creative roster-building strategies.
Whether it’s using offer sheets, facilitating complex multi-team trades, weaponizing cap space, or targeting undervalued players through analytics, the NHL’s best front offices are constantly searching for ways to gain incremental advantages. The Florida Panthers, Vegas Golden Knights, and Carolina Hurricanes have each demonstrated a willingness to challenge convention if it improves their chances of winning.
Continued (good stuff from Tony, as always)…
