Detroit Red Wings owner makes critical error involving Steven Stamkos
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Detroit Free Press columnist Carlos Monarrez is reporting that Red Wings owner Christopher Ilitch's reluctance to approve major contracts cost the franchise two significant signings, including a shot at future Hall of Famer Steven Stamkos.
It's news that Detroit Red Wings fans are absolutely going to despise. Although, as Monarrez reveals in his reporting, this is a common pattern in Detroit.
According to a person of knowledge of the situation, Ilitch's hesitation in approving big signings cost the Wings two big signings: Steven Stamkos in 2024, and, on the same day Yzerman's removal was announced, assistant GM Shawn Horcoff had a deal in place with Anthony Mantha, but it fell through while Ilitch deliberated.
Stamkos Chose Nashville Instead
Stamkos ultimately signed a four-year, $32 million deal with the Nashville Predators in the summer of 2024.
He posted 66 points in 82 games in his first season with the club, then followed it up with 42 goals in 2025-26, a total that would have led every Red Wings forward this past season.
A Costly Pattern of Delay
The Mantha situation followed a similar script. Detroit drafted the winger before trading him away years ago, and this summer Horcoff reportedly had terms worked out to bring him back.
All of that, only for the deal to stall while ownership deliberated. Mantha is coming off a career year in Pittsburgh with 33 goals and 64 points.
For a franchise that has now missed the playoffs for a decade, the missed opportunities are glaring.
Stamkos would have added a proven, high-end scoring threat and a veteran leadership presence to a Detroit lineup that has struggled to find consistent offense.
His shooting, faceoff ability, and power play production remain among the best of his generation, and his familiarity with Yzerman from their Tampa Bay days made Detroit a natural fit.
Instead, the Wings watched a difference-maker walk to a division rival while their playoff drought continued.
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