Wings' Chris Ilitch on GM hire: 'Could be at the end of the season' - Detroit Free Press

Steve Yzerman announced in July that he would be stepping down from his position as general manager of the Detroit Red Wings to move into an advisor role. At the time, it was unclear whether Yzerman made the call himself, but team owner Chris Ilitch revealed Thursday he made the “difficult but necessary decision” to demote the franchise legend. Ilitch spoke to Max Bultman of The Athletic on the state of the franchise, including his reaction to chants of “Sell the team” being heard at Little Caesars Arena. “Fans absolutely have the right to tell us how they feel,” Ilitch said prior to a 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Flyers, moving the team to 2-3-2 on the season. “This is their team. So, I understand fan frustration. I share it, to be frank. My thoughts are that fans want to see our team win on the ice, and I do too. And as the person that’s accountable for this franchise, it’s why I made the change (in general managers), and it’s why I’m so deliberate in our search.”The Red Wings moved Shawn Horcoff into the role of interim general manager in September, but the former NHL forward has seemingly been behind the eight-ball since being promoted.

According to Elliotte Friedman, Avalanche assistant coach Dave Hakstol will take over as the new head coach at Arizona State. Colorado has permitted Hakstol to negotiate with the program and should be behind the bench as soon as the Sun Devils’ next game, which is at UMass Lowell this Friday. The Sun Devils made the announcement official on Thursday morning. Hakstol coached with the Avalanche on Wednesday night. Notably, his title carries no interim tag. Arizona State has also, officially, parted ways with Greg Powers per Katie Strang of The Athletic. Hakstol’s staff will retain assistant coach Jimmy Mullin per Strang.

The Marlins officially have a new voice leading their hitting department, replacing Pedro Guerrero.

Connor Hellebuyck's suspension will come to an end on Friday. Elliotte Friedman has the story.