Red Wings’ Yzerman Expects Fighting to Be Back With a Vengeance
Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman recently made headlines with comments suggesting that fighting could be making a return to the NHL, and it could come back “with a vengeance.” While the notion of fighting in hockey has evolved over the years, Yzerman’s statement points to a shift in the league’s culture, particularly within the Red Wings’ organization.
Over the past decade, fighting in the NHL has been on a noticeable decline. As the league focused on speed, skill, and minimizing injuries, many teams distanced themselves from enforcers — players whose main role was to fight and protect their teammates. The rise of high-flying offenses and the emphasis on preventing head injuries led to a decrease in the number of fights per season. Yet, fighting has never completely disappeared, and for some, it remains a vital part of the game.
Yzerman, who played for the Red Wings from 1983 to 2006 and was known for his leadership and tenacity on the ice, understands the delicate balance between skill and toughness. During his tenure as the Red Wings’ GM, Yzerman has built a team centered around young, talented players like Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond. However, he also understands the importance of a physical presence in today’s NHL, especially in a league where the speed of the game has increased dramatically.
In his comments, Yzerman emphasized that the landscape of hockey is constantly shifting, and there is a real need for a team to stand up for its players and make its presence felt on the ice. While this doesn’t mean that every player on the roster will be expected to fight regularly, Yzerman alluded to the possibility of acquiring players who could play a more physical role. The team needs someone capable of defending their teammates and deterring opponents from taking liberties on their skilled players.
Yzerman’s comments come at a time when fighting in the NHL has seen a slight uptick after years of decline. This season, a number of teams have made moves to bring back physical players who can contribute in other areas of the game as well. The return of fighting, especially from players who are also capable of contributing offensively or on the penalty kill, suggests that there is still a place for toughness in the game, even as it evolves.
Additionally, Yzerman pointed out that hockey is a physical sport by nature, and tough situations often arise that require players to defend each other. With the physicality of the game increasing and teams playing a more aggressive style, the Red Wings’ GM sees fighting as a way for teams to maintain control and create an environment of mutual respect.
Fighting also has an emotional component that some believe helps fuel the team’s energy. It can spark momentum in a game, galvanizing players and fans alike. A well-timed fight can be just as effective in energizing a team as a highlight-reel goal.
Ultimately, Yzerman’s statement underscores the ongoing shift in NHL culture, where physicality, skill, and strategy all intersect. The Red Wings may be on the brink of a new era where toughness is once again embraced, though this time around, it will likely be with a more strategic and balanced approach. As the NHL continues to evolve, Yzerman’s Red Wings could be one of the teams leading the charge in integrating toughness into a modern, skilled lineup. It remains to be seen just how much fighting will return to the league, but for the Red Wings, it’s clear that Yzerman believes a return to physical play could be the missing piece in their rebuild.
