NHL Rumors: Red Wings GM Update, Werenski to Stars Still Alive & Potential KHL Deals

The Detroit Red Wings are proceeding with their search for a new general manager to replace Steve Yzerman. Meanwhile, speculation persists about Zach Werenski potentially joining the Dallas Stars. Additionally, several NHL players are being linked to potential deals in Russia's Kontinental Hockey League (KHL).

Red Wings Begin GM Interview Process

Following a period without postseason appearances during his tenure, Dylan Larkin's trade request marked the end of Steve Yzerman's time as the Detroit Red Wings' general manager. While Yzerman will remain with the organization, Elliotte Friedman reports that he will not be involved in hockey operations, granting the incoming GM full autonomy of the franchise.

Friedman also indicated that the interview process for the GM position will intensify over the next week, with candidates expected to present a concrete plan for the team's future. Jeff Greenberg, the general manager of the MLB's Detroit Tigers, is mentioned as a potential candidate, bringing experience from both the Chicago Blackhawks and Chicago Cubs. Internal candidates such as Kris Draper, Shawn Horcoff, and Niklas Lidstrom are also reportedly in consideration, along with external prospects like Scott White and Ryan Martin.

Werenski to Stars Remains a Possibility

Earlier this summer, a minor misunderstanding between Zach Werenski and the Columbus Blue Jackets escalated into widespread rumors and a halted trade to the Dallas Stars. The rumored deal reportedly involved Thomas Harley and Mavrik Bourque, though Bourque has since been traded to the Nashville Predators. The key piece of the original trade was expected to be Harley going to the Blue Jackets, with Bourque being a more expendable asset. Jeff Marek recently suggested on "The Sheet" that the trade is not entirely off the table.

Although Werenski exercised his no-trade clause to block the initial deal, and there appeared to be no immediate desire for him to leave Columbus, circumstances could change. Werenski's future decisions regarding his career in Columbus will be crucial. If he expresses a desire to move on, Dallas could present a compelling offer, and it's a destination Werenski might find attractive. The previous trade veto seemed more about his willingness to depart from the Blue Jackets than his interest in joining the Stars.

KHL Teams Pursuing Available NHL Players

As the NHL offseason continues, several players remain unsigned. The KHL's Ak Bars Kazan is reportedly showing interest in a number of NHL players to bolster their offense, according to Artur Khairullin of Sport Express. Among the players of interest are Evander Kane, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Evgenii Dadonov.

Evander Kane, who recently surpassed 1,000 NHL games, may face limited interest from NHL teams after a disappointing season with the Vancouver Canucks, partly due to a history of controversies and undisciplined play. Vladimir Tarasenko, a former prolific goal-scorer, has dealt with injuries, but had a strong season with the Minnesota Wild in 2025-26. While there's talk of him rejoining the Wild, nothing is confirmed. Evgenii Dadonov's NHL career may be nearing its end after scoring only one goal in 24 appearances in 2025-26, and he could seek to revive his career in the KHL with Ak Bars.