Detroit Free Press February 28th, 2014 - Son of Sam99's Dynasty

Arena Blog Dynasty Scores Sign Up ☰

Son of Sam99's Dynasty Blog

Detroit Free Press February 28th, 2014

Posted on September 14, 2015 at 03:42 PM.

(0)

February 28th, 2014

Ken Holland Officially Retires as Wings� Top Exec

Detroit, MI-- Longtime Red Wings General Manager Ken Holland announced in an emotional press conference at Joe Lewis Arena on Friday that he is cancer free but would not be returning to that position as had been previously planned.

Holland announced in September that he would be temporarily stepping down as GM so he could focus on his health after recently being diagnosed with stage two toe cancer. On Friday he made his full retirement official when he confirmed suspicions that he would not be returning to the franchise.

�Since stepping back from my duties in the front office earlier this season I�ve realized how much time I�ve missed with my family over the years.� Holland stated. �Now with a clean bill of health I know I need to cherish the time I have with the people I love.� The former team executive stated that he would be happy to support and help out the organization if asked, just not as the General Manager.

�This is a sad day for me because I love the Red Wings, but also a very hopeful one. I�m excited to begin this next phase of my life.�
Rick Watkins has been serving as the head team executive since Holland�s announcement in September and has been given the title of Interim General Manager as of Friday. Team owner Mike Illich stated that Watkins� performance would be reviewed in the off season as to whether he would stay on as GM or if they would consider bringing in a new face.

�We have full confidence in Rick but this is a top position on a top franchise. We want to be sure that we�re moving forward with the right hire. At the moment Rick is the leading candidate.�