Yzerman Speaks: Post-Season Presser Breakdown ft. Max Bultman - Apr. 23rd, 2026

Yzerman and McLellan have finally taken the stage. This Detroit Red Wings podcast breaks down Steve Yzerman's end-of-season press conference after a disappointing end. Max Bultman joins for our full analysis, digging into what will come of the bottom-six roster shakeup, and what a real offseason pivot looks like after another March collapse. (00:00) - Intro and Yzerman's Presser's Tone Setting the scene on a very different Yzerman presser and the tone shift from last year, and Max Bultman on why Steve Yzerman sounded more accountable and less defensive this time around. (06:40) - "We Need Better Players" Unpacking Yzerman's bluntest line and whether it signals real change or more of the same. What Todd McLellan though of Lucas Raymond's performance. (13:20) - Reclamation Targets Why Detroit needs to find its own Morgan Geekie or Dylan Strome instead of chasing another known-quantity signing. (23:45) - Bottom Six Additions Mason Marchment, Charlie Coyle, Anders Lee, and whether Patrick Kane returning is the domino that shapes everything else. (32:10) - Yzerman's Job Security What "I intend to see this through" actually means for the GM's future in Detroit. (35:42) - Dylan Larkin's Leadership Yzerman defends his captain while also calling for more five-on-five production from Larkin. (40:50) - Michael Rasmussen and Core Changes Rasmussen's hits and penalty minutes cratered this season — is he the litmus test for whether Yzerman means it? (58:30) - Successful Offseason What will constitute a successful season in Hockeytown? Jason Robertson or Robert Thomas? Multiple bottom six changes? (1:01:25) - Goaltending Concerns Sebastian Cossa losing waiver exemption, John Gibson's workload, and why the crease is far from settled with Postava, Gylander, and Augustine in play. (1:11:35) - Patreon Q&A Grand Rapids Griffins call-up candidates, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard's off-wing question, and more. --- This episode is brought to you by Hims. Visit hims.com/wingedwheel for your personalized hair loss treatment options. Support the show: Patreon.com/WingedWheelPodcast Head over to wingedwheelpodcast.com to find all the ways to listen, how to support the show, and so much more!