Fans of the Detroit Red Wings were elated with the news that broke earlier this morning that a press conference had been scheduled at Little Caesars Arena, during which the team is expected to announce the return of Steve Yzerman as the team’s general manager.
But it doesn’t look like Stevie is the only one who is coming back to Detroit!
http://gty.im/646727
According to multiple reports, former Detroit Red Wings forward Pat Verbeek is allegedly going to be coming back to Detroit along with Yzerman.
Curious to see what, if any, the ripple effect is in TB. I believe TB AGM Pat Verbeek’s contract expires at end of this season and while Verbeek interviewed for GM job in EDM and wants to be a GM, he may be in a position to join Yzerman in DET. Just speculation, for now anyway.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) April 19, 2019
It has also been speculated that Al Murray, who just completed his ninth season with Tampa Bay as director of amateur scouting, could potentially accompany Yzerman to Detroit. Murray was responsible for drafting Nikita Kucherov (128 points this season), Brayden Point (92 points), and goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy.
Also, there may be others, such as TB chief amateur scout Al Murray, who may have contractual out clauses triggered by the organizational departure of Yzerman. Not saying there will be a flood of people leaving, just that some may have that option.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) April 19, 2019
A big concern coming from this Yzerman hiring in DET is the possible departure of Al Murray, director of scouting.
However–I think an even *greater* concern is losing Stacy Roest, director of development.
The Bolts scout very well, but the glue is really the development
— Bolts Corner (@BoltsCorner) April 19, 2019
Murray also worked with the Los Angeles Kings and drafted stars such as Jonathan Quick (2012 Conn Smythe Trophy winner) and Anže Kopitar.