Steve Yzerman forced to participate in draft remotely due to COVID threat

Detroit Red Wings general manager Steve Yzerman won’t be able to be in the same room as his associates tonight for the 2020 NHL Draft. He was recently exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19. 

While the club said he’s had “multiple” negative tests, Yzerman is not willing to take any chances.

The draft that was originally scheduled for June 26-27 in Montreal, but given the pandemic and the league’s restartthis summer, will finally be held virtually tonight and Wednesday.

The Red Wings have the fourth overall pick tonight in the first round and nine more picks Wednesday in Rounds 2-7in what could be a major step forward in the rebuild.

Yzerman will be isolated for the event tonight, while amateur scouting director Kris Draper, and some of Yzerman’s staff are expected to be at Little Caesars Arena, while European scouts will be joining in virtually.