The Detroit Red Wings' 2026 season was a story of two halves: a promising rise followed by a heartbreaking fall. Despite racking up 92 points—their highest total since 2016—a historic second-half collapse left them watching the Stanley Cup Playoffs from the sidelines once again. This painful finish has fans and analysts alike asking one burning question: is it time for a major shake-up in the front office?
According to recent reports, the answer, for now, appears to be no. NHL insider Chris Johnston has indicated that no significant changes to the Red Wings' leadership are expected, which includes General Manager Steve Yzerman. This news comes amidst swirling rumors about Yzerman's future, placing the legendary Wing-turned-executive squarely under the microscope.
Evaluating Yzerman's tenure is a complex task. On one hand, he has undeniably steered the franchise toward respectability, assembling a core with genuine star power. Defenseman Moritz Seider has blossomed into one of the league's elite, and the acquisition of Alex DeBrincat paid immediate dividends, as he became the first Red Wing since Marian Hossa in 2009 to eclipse the 40-goal mark. The hiring of head coach Todd McLellan has also been widely praised.
Yet, for all the progress, familiar flaws have repeatedly surfaced at the worst possible time. A lack of depth scoring from the bottom six forwards and persistent struggles in five-on-five play were known issues that arguably weren't fully addressed before the trade deadline. While additions like Justin Faulk and David Perron brought experience, the team's late-season stumbles have become a frustrating pattern.
The result is an NHL-longest playoff drought that has now stretched to three consecutive seasons of coming up just short. This year's finish was particularly cruel, as Detroit held the 13th-best record in the league but missed the 16-team postseason field. Yzerman has rebuilt the foundation, but until the Red Wings can close out a season strong and secure a playoff berth, the narrative of "almost" will continue to overshadow the progress made in Hockeytown.