The Detroit Red Wings' search for a new general manager took another unexpected turn this week, but it may not be the setback some fans initially feared.
According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, Detroit Tigers general manager Jeff Greenberg has withdrawn his name from consideration for the Red Wings' vacant position, citing his commitment to the Tigers and his desire to finish what he started in Detroit's other professional sports organization.
Detroit Tigers GM Jeff Greenberg — citing his commitment and desire to finish what he’s started— has withdrawn from consideration for the vacant Red Wings position.
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) September 7, 2026
The search continues minus one legit contender
While Greenberg was certainly an intriguing candidate, his decision leaves the Red Wings with plenty of other avenues to explore as the organization looks to replace Steve Yzerman.
In addition, the Red Wings will not move forward with assistant general manager Shawn Horcoff, according to Jake Rivard of Octopus Thrower.
Horcoff represents Detroit
Perhaps the biggest sign that the Red Wings' search is nearing its conclusion came Tuesday.
The NHL held its annual meeting with all 32 general managers and head coaches at 1 p.m. ET. Unlike last September's meeting, which was held in person in Detroit, the league opted for a virtual meeting this year to make things easier for everyone involved.
With Detroit still without a permanent general manager, assistant GM Shawn Horcoff represented the Red Wings during the meeting.
Horcoff has already been handling important responsibilities during the transition, and his involvement Tuesday showed that Detroit's hockey operations department is continuing to function despite the unusual circumstances.
A decision could be coming soon
The timing is becoming increasingly important.
Training camp is scheduled to begin on September 17, meaning the Red Wings are quickly approaching the point where having a permanent general manager in place would provide much-needed stability. The organization has already gone through the majority of the offseason without Yzerman in charge, and eventually someone will need to take control of the team's roster decisions and long-term direction.
Who would you like to see as the next Detroit Red Wings General Manager? 🐙#LGRW #RedWings #DetroitRedWings https://t.co/A38KSdptdS pic.twitter.com/4icQOmiFrs
— Hockeytown Rundown (@HockeytownRD) September 8, 2026
According to the latest reporting, the expectation is that Detroit could have a decision on its next general manager sometime this week.
That means the next few days could finally bring an answer to one of the biggest questions surrounding the Red Wings.
Detroit still has plenty to be excited about
Greenberg would have been an interesting choice, especially because of his existing connection to Detroit sports. But his decision to remain with the Tigers should not be viewed as a disaster for the Red Wings.
There are still candidates available like Brett Peterson of the Florida Panthers and Scott White of the Dallas Stars. Detroit appears to be approaching the finish line of its search.
After months of uncertainty, Red Wings fans may finally be just days, or perhaps even hours, away from finding out who will be responsible for leading the franchise into its next chapter.
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