Detroit Free Press article
August 30, 2006
by Helene St. James

Steve Yzerman, left, met with Jimmy Devellano, right, and Ken Holland in Toronto on Tuesday.
Former Red Wings captain Steve Yzerman was initiated into a staple of life as a civilian Tuesday: the business lunch.

For several hours he, senior vice president Jimmy Devellano and general manager Ken Holland met at a Toronto restaurant, discussing the future of Yzerman and the future of the team.

Yzerman, 41, has been earmarked to join the front office for the past decade, a position made official when he announced his retirement July 3. Tuesday’s meeting was more of a broad sharing of ideas; the precise definition of Yzerman’s role will be fleshed out over the coming weeks.

“I’d love to have Steve come in and be a key member of organization — that’s what we’re discussing,” Holland said. “From our perspective, we want him to be as involved as Steve wants to be.”

Yzerman could not be reached for comment, but he has steadfastly said he’s interested in joining the managerial ranks. His role most likely is going to be as something of a consultant, giving input on whatever players are being considered for the team. He is not going to be a scout, and whatever traveling he does will be at his own discretion.

“Steve would like to be involved, we just have to make sure we figure out what the right job is,” Holland said. “Steve’s had all summer to think about his post-playing career. We’re close to training camp now; everybody’s getting a little excited. The season is right around the corner, so we need to all find what the best position is for Steve, what works for everybody.”

Yzerman was to return to his off-season cottage after the meeting, but he is expected back in the Detroit area next week, when his three daughters return to school. Plans are to resume discussions at that time.