The Detroit Red Wings announced Wednesday that Steve Yzerman will transition into an advisory role while the organization begins its search for a new head of hockey operations.

Team owner Christopher Ilitch said Detroit will evaluate both internal and external candidates. If the Red Wings decide to promote from within, assistant general managers Shawn Horcoff and Kris Draper immediately emerge as the leading contenders.

Shawn Horcoff Brings Front Office Experience

Horcoff has served as one of Yzerman’s top lieutenants for several years and currently oversees the Grand Rapids Griffins, Detroit’s American Hockey League affiliate.

That role has allowed him to work closely with many of the organization’s top prospects as they transition toward the NHL.

A former NHL captain with the Edmonton Oilers, Horcoff has steadily climbed the executive ranks and is widely viewed as one of the organization’s most experienced front office voices. Although he has never served as an NHL general manager, his day-to-day responsibilities have prepared him for a larger leadership role.

Kris Draper Knows the Organization Inside and Out

Draper is another highly respected name within the Red Wings organization.

The former four-time Stanley Cup champion has led Detroit’s amateur scouting department and has played a significant role in shaping the organization’s prospect pipeline during Yzerman’s tenure.

Like Horcoff, Draper has never held the title of NHL general manager. However, his championship pedigree, decades-long relationship with the franchise, and extensive scouting experience make him a logical candidate if Detroit prefers continuity.

Will the Red Wings Look Outside the Organization?

While Horcoff and Draper appear to be the obvious internal options, the biggest question may be whether Christopher Ilitch wants a fresh start.

Both executives were hired or promoted under Yzerman’s leadership, meaning promoting either would largely keep Detroit’s current hockey operations structure intact.

If ownership believes the franchise needs a new direction after missing the playoffs for 10 consecutive seasons, the Red Wings could instead pursue an experienced executive from outside the organization.

That decision could ultimately determine whether Detroit continues building on Yzerman’s foundation or begins a new era with a completely different vision.