The Detroit Red Wings have appointed Shawn Horcoff as interim general manager, effective Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2026, as the franchise continues its search for a permanent successor to Steve Yzerman. The announcement arrives just two days before the team is scheduled to open training camp at Little Caesars Arena.
Horcoff Steps Into Leadership Role
Horcoff, 47, brings deep institutional knowledge to the position. He has spent the past six seasons as the organization’s director of player development and three seasons as assistant director of player personnel. Since Yzerman vacated the general manager role in mid-July, Horcoff has been managing daily hockey operations duties.
Red Wings governor and CEO Chris Ilitch emphasized the stability Horcoff provides during the transition.
“As our process continues to find the best possible leader for Red Wings hockey operations, I’m appreciative of Shawn for stepping up to serve in this capacity,” Red Wings governor and CEO Chris Ilitch said in a statement. “His knowledge of our organization and range of experience allows us to operate with a clear decision-maker in place for the season ahead, while maintaining our commitment to carry out a thorough, methodical search process on our own timeline. Shawn has my complete support, and the authority to make decisions in the best interests of our organization.”
Immediate Priority: Simon Edvinsson Contract
Horcoff’s most pressing task is finalizing a new contract for restricted free agent defenseman Simon Edvinsson. A deal completed by end of day on Sept. 15 could still be structured for eight years; after that date, NHL rules limit teams to a maximum of seven years when re-signing their own players.
Yzerman Transitions to Advisory Role
The team also confirmed that Yzerman will officially move into a senior advisor position reporting to Ilitch. This transition comes as Detroit aims to end a playoff drought that reached an active NHL-record 10 consecutive seasons last spring.
Search for Permanent GM Remains Active
Ilitch indicated the search for a permanent head of hockey operations has drawn substantial interest from around the league.
“Our search has attracted significant interest in the head of hockey operations position from respected leaders across the industry, and several of those candidates, including Shawn, remain under consideration for the permanent role,” Ilitch said. “Identifying and hiring the right leader is essential to our franchise’s future, and we remain committed to being deliberate and thorough in this process. We’re grateful for our players, staff, and fans for their support as we work toward this pivotal hire.”
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