Yzerman Promotes Shawn Horcoff to Assistant General Manager

Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman decided the best strategy for replacing Pat Verbeek was to name someone he already knew and trusted. Yzerman promoted Shawn Horcoff to Verbeek’s former role as assistant general manager and GM of the Grand Rapids Griffins.

“Shawn has a tremendous work ethic and has done a great job developing the prospects within our organization, helping them prepare for the next steps in their careers,” Yzerman said. “The relationships he’s formed within the organization – and throughout the hockey community – make him a valuable asset to our future both in Detroit and Grand Rapids, and I look forward to continue working alongside him.”

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Horcoff, 43, spent the past six seasons as the Red Wings’ Director of Player Development. He excelled in that job. It was clear that Yzerman viewed him as a valuable contributor.

“I’m very excited for my new role with the Red Wings and look forward to continuing the winning culture and tradition in Grand Rapids,” Horcoff said.

Shawn Horcoff In Charge of Griffins

Horcoff will oversee the Griffins’ day-to-day operations, including personnel decisions, contract negotiations and player movement.

The Griffins GM position is critical because  the Red Wings are rebuilding through the draft.  Most of their top prospects will end up spending time in Grand Rapids. Part of Horcoff’s mandate is to keep that team competitive, to create a winning culture at the lower level. That means adding veteran minor leaguers who can mentor the prospects the right way.

Horcoff played more than 1,000 NHL games with the Edmonton Oilers, Dallas Stars and Anaheim Ducks . He also has roots in the state of Michigan because he played four seasons at Michigan State. He was the Central Collegiate Hockey Associaition Player of the Year in 1999-00.