Former Detroit Red Wings captain and current Tampa Bay Lightning General Manager Steve Yzerman is reacting to the death of Red Wings' owner Mike Ilitch on Friday.
In a statement by the team, Yzerman said he was "extremely saddened" by the passing of Ilitch.
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Ilitch played a role in drafting Yzerman at just 18 years old in 1983 and spent his entire career with the Red Wings, before retiring in 2006.
Read his entire statement below.
“I'm extremely saddened to hear news of the passing of Mr. Ilitch. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ilitch, as well as their entire family, have had an immeasurable impact on not only my career, but my life.
“Going back to the age of 18 when I arrived in Detroit, the guidance, generosity, concern and love Mr. Ilitch had always shown me and my family are things I will forever be grateful for.
“I was extremely fortunate to have played my entire career for a man who's love of hockey and burning desire to win were the catalysts which drove the Detroit Red Wings to four Stanley Cup Championships after purchasing
the team in 1982.“Mr. Ilitch has left an incredible legacy in baseball, hockey and Metropolitan Detroit. He will forever be remembered for all the ways he enriched our lives. Mike Ilitch will live on vividly in my mind and heart forever.”
