Steve Yzerman’s decision to step down as Detroit Red Wings general manager has created one of the most important vacancies in the NHL.
With Christopher Ilitch confirming that the organization will consider both internal and external candidates, the Red Wings have an opportunity to reshape the future of Hockeytown.
If Detroit wants to make a bold move, these are the three executives who deserve the first phone calls.
1. Eric Tulsky, General Manager, Carolina Hurricanes
If the Red Wings are looking for one of hockey’s brightest analytical minds, Eric Tulsky should sit at the top of the list.
Tulsky officially became the Hurricanes’ general manager in 2024 after spending years helping build one of the NHL’s most consistently successful organizations. Carolina has become known for elite drafting, smart salary cap management, and uncovering undervalued talent. Those are areas where Detroit could still improve despite a strong prospect pipeline.
Tulsky blends modern analytics with traditional scouting, a combination that has helped keep Carolina among the league’s elite year after year.
The challenge, of course, is convincing him to leave the defending Stanley Cup champs.
2. Jim Nill, General Manager, Dallas Stars
If there is one executive with the résumé to command immediate respect in Hockeytown, it is Jim Nill.
Before becoming the architect of the Dallas Stars, Nill spent nearly two decades in Detroit’s front office under Ken Holland. He played a significant role in helping build one of the NHL’s greatest dynasties before leaving for Dallas in 2013.
Since taking over the Stars, Nill has assembled one of the league’s deepest and most balanced rosters through exceptional drafting, savvy trades, and disciplined free-agent signings. Dallas has remained firmly in the Stanley Cup conversation for multiple seasons, and Nill continues to be regarded as one of hockey’s premier executives.
A return to Detroit would feel like a full-circle moment.
Whether Dallas would allow that to happen is another story.
3. George McPhee, President of Hockey Operations, Vegas Golden Knights
If Christopher Ilitch wants a proven hockey executive with championship credentials, George McPhee deserves serious consideration.
McPhee built the Vegas Golden Knights from the ground up, helping transform an expansion franchise into an immediate contender and, eventually, a Stanley Cup champion. While Kelly McCrimmon now serves as general manager, McPhee remains president of hockey operations and continues to play a major role in shaping the organization’s direction.
Few executives have demonstrated a better ability to build competitive rosters quickly.
His experience, leadership, and willingness to make bold decisions could provide exactly the type of fresh perspective Detroit may need after missing the playoffs for 10 consecutive seasons.
The Bottom Line
Replacing Steve Yzerman won’t be easy.
The next leader of Detroit’s hockey operations will inherit a talented young core, questions surrounding Dylan Larkin’s future, and enormous expectations from one of hockey’s most passionate fan bases.
Eric Tulsky offers innovation.
Jim Nill brings championship-level roster building and deep Detroit ties.
George McPhee has repeatedly proven he knows how to construct a winner.
If the Red Wings truly want to return to Stanley Cup contention, these are three executives who should be at the top of Christopher Ilitch’s wish list.
