Despite coming close to making the playoffs last year with 91 points and 41 wins, Yzerman knows that being close is not enough. The Red Wings have not made the playoffs since the 2016-17 season, and the near-miss has only put up the expectations without the satisfaction of playoff hockey.
Yzerman remains committed to his long-term plan to rebuild the Red Wings into a dominant NHL team, similar to the powerhouse they were during his playing days. He emphasizes that short-term pressures will not change his approach, refusing to call it the "Yzer-plan." Instead, he focuses on maintaining the course he believes is right for the team's future, even if it takes years to achieve the desired success.
Despite the pressure, he remains focused on his strategy, understanding the importance of patience and perseverance in building a championship-caliber team.