Former Red Wings executive laments current turmoil within Detroit franchise

Neil Smith, who once served as head scout and assistant general manager for the Detroit Red Wings and later guided the New York Rangers to a Stanley Cup, discussed his concerns on a recent NHL Wraparound Podcast. He praised the Ilitch family's long-term ownership but lamented the current instability, pointing to captain Dylan Larkin's public trade request and the July removal of GM Steve Yzerman after seven seasons without a playoff appearance.

With training camp approaching and no replacement GM announced, Smith described the organization as being in a state of chaos. He emphasized that the unresolved leadership and Larkin's situation leave the franchise in a troubling position, especially for someone who contributed to its historic success.