NHL Rumors: Steve Yzerman interested in joining New York Rangers?

According to the latest NHL rumors, former Tampa Bay Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman is interested in the New York Rangers’ vacant team president role.

Recently, the New York Rangers announced long-time team president Glen Sather will step down from his role. Though he will still serve in his roles as a Senior Advisor and Alternate Governor, they’ll be looking to fill the position sooner rather than later. According to the latest NHL rumors, one of their top targets could be Steve Yzerman.

This report comes from The New York Post.

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Yzerman’s reported interest is a bit interesting, for several reasons. First of all, he has ties to the Detroit Red Wings, having spent his entire playing career there and getting a start to his front office career there as well. Yzerman reportedly stepped down from his role as the Tampa Bay Lightning general manager to spent more time with his family in Michigan. New York is roughly 800 driving miles away from Detroit.

Secondly, what would this mean for the Rangers rebuild? Because if Yzerman would be willing to give up likely getting a job with the Red Wings, one can assume it must be for a prolific role. Perhaps the Rangers are prepared to spend this summer with several huge free agents available? The Red Wings aren’t as far along in their rebuild as the Rangers, which is worth noting.

My Take

This smells like a smokescreen. When you consider Yzerman’s desire to stay near his family and his ties to the Red Wings, his reported interest in joining the Rangers doesn’t add up. Yes, people can change how they feel. And the Rangers’ job would be a pretty big one for Yzerman. But something doesn’t add up.

It wouldn’t be surprising if this reported interest is being leaked from Yzerman and his agent, as they try to motivate the Red Wings to get the ball rolling on their negotiations with him. With Sather only recently announcing his decision, the timing is slightly weird as well.

The Rangers job would be a terrific one for Yzerman. He’d get to join an Original Six team with a ton of resources. Also, with the history between the Rangers and the Lightning, it would be hilariously appropriate for Yzerman, the former Lightning general manager, to join the Rangers.

However, assuming the Red Wings are also interested in him (all signs point to this being true), it would be difficult seeing him choose the Rangers over a local team who he spent his entire playing career with.

Verdict: Wouldn’t rule it out and it wouldn’t be surprising if Yzerman has interest in the job. But if it comes down to joining the Rangers or Red Wings, it would be surprising if he chose the former over the latter, who he has significant ties to. Whoever gets Yzerman is going to be much better because of him. I’d give the edge to Detroit, but crazier things have happened.