Chris Ilitch, the man accountable for the Red Wings, straight up said he hears the “sell the team” chants at Little Caesars Arena. And get this: he totally gets why they’re happening because the Red Wings aren’t performing well enough. This isn’t just some owner nodding along, he’s feeling the heat right there with the fans.
“This Is Their Team”: Ilitch Gets Real About Fan Frustration
Ilitch didn’t hold back in a chat with beat writers before Thursday’s game against Philadelphia. He told them, point blank, that fans have every right to voice how they feel. “This is their team,” he said, acknowledging the frustration. He even went a step further, admitting, “I share it, to be frank.” That’s a pretty heavy statement from the president and CEO of Ilitch Holdings. He made it clear that fans, just like him, want to see the team win on the ice. That shared desire for victory is exactly why he made the general manager change, saying they are “deliberate in our search.” Apparently, Ilitch has a “clear vision” for where he wants to take the Red Wings, which is something we all want to see.
The GM Search Continues As Larkin Saga Looms
So, about that search for someone to lead hockey operations? Yeah, it’s still going, and there’s “no timeframe” for a hire. Ilitch is holding firm, stating he’ll make the hire only “when I find the right person.” He understands it’s “too important to this organization” to rush it, they gotta find “the right leader.” Meanwhile, the Dylan Larkin trade request is still out there, just kinda hanging in the air. Ilitch wouldn’t spill details on those discussions, but he did say he talks to Larkin and all the players, offering his full support. “I support Dylan and every player on our roster,” he confirmed, emphasizing his commitment to providing resources so players can “reach their full potential” as long as they’re a Red Wing.
Interim GM Shawn Horcoff Stays Busy With DeBrincat Deal
It’s not all waiting around, though. Ilitch gave a shoutout to interim general manager Shawn Horcoff, saying he’s doing a “real good job” in the role. Horcoff apparently “stepped right in and hit the ground running,” and he’s got Ilitch’s “full confidence.” One big move that backs up that confidence? Horcoff signing forward Alex DeBrincat to a contract extension this very week. So, even with the GM search ongoing and the Larkin situation developing, at least some key moves are getting made.
Right now, the big thing is what happens next with this GM search. Ilitch is accountable, he’s heard the frustration, and he’s looking for “the right leader.” It’s all about finding that person who can finally get this team winning on the ice. Fans are watching, and so are we.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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