Steve Yzerman is one of hockey’s most respected figures, both as a player and as an executive.
Known for his sharp vision, determination, and unmatched leadership, Yzerman became a household name in the NHL during his long career with the Detroit Red Wings.
Today, fans remember him not only for his incredible skills on the ice but also for the championships he brought to Detroit.
This article teaches you about Steve Yzerman’s net worth, biography, career earnings, endorsements, career achievements, wife, career overview, and more.
Steve Yzerman’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Stephen Gregory Yzerman |
| Nickname | The Captain |
| Birth Date | May 9, 1965 |
| Birthplace | Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Weight | 185 lbs (84 kg) |
| College | Did not attend (entered NHL draft early) |
| Religion | Christian |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Turned Professional | 1983 (Drafted 4th overall by Detroit Red Wings) |
| Current Team | Executive Vice President & General Manager of Detroit Red Wings |
| Position (as Player) | Centre |
| Salary (As Executive 2025) | Estimated $3–4 million annually |
| Current Net Worth (2025) | Around $50 million |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Spouse | Lisa Brennan (m. 1989) |
| Children | 3 daughters (Isabelle, Maria, and Sophia) |
| Car Collection | Known to own luxury brands like Mercedes and Cadillac |
| Played for | Detroit Red Wings |
| Top Brand Uses | Nike, CCM Hockey Gear |
| Hobby | Golf, fishing, and spending time with family |
| Instagram Profile | – |
Steve Yzerman was born on May 9, 1965, in Cranbrook, British Columbia, Canada. He grew up in a close-knit family with German and Canadian roots.
At an early age, his passion for hockey became clear, and his parents encouraged him to pursue the sport.Soon after, his family moved to Nepean, Ontario, where Steve spent most of his childhood.
Surrounded by supportive siblings and family members, Yzerman developed his skills on local rinks.
His remarkable talent quickly drew attention, and by his teenage years, he was already making waves in junior hockey. His upbringing gave him a strong work ethic, which later shaped him into one of hockey’s greatest leaders.
Early Career
Steve Yzerman’s journey began in junior hockey with the Peterborough Petes in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL). Even as a teenager, his maturity and skill impressed scouts.
At just 17 years old, he entered the 1983 NHL Draft, where the Detroit Red Wings selected him fourth overall. This moment marked the beginning of a career that would change the fortunes of the Red Wings forever.
Professional Career
Steve Yzerman debuted with the Detroit Red Wings in 1983, immediately becoming a star player. By 1986, he was named team captain at only 21 years old, making him the youngest captain in Red Wings history.
Over 2 decades, he turned the struggling franchise into a powerhouse. His leadership style combined humility, discipline, and determination, which earned him respect across the league.
Yzerman led Detroit to 3 Stanley Cup championships (1997, 1998, and 2002). During his career, he recorded 692 goals and 1,063 assists in 1,514 games, making him one of the highest-scoring players in NHL history.
After retiring in 2006, he seamlessly transitioned to management, first with the Tampa Bay Lightning and then returning to Detroit as general manager.
Wife
Steve Yzerman married Lisa Brennan in 1989. The couple has 3 daughters—Isabelle, Maria, and Sophia.
Steve Yzerman’s Net Worth Details
As of 2025, Steve Yzerman has an estimated net worth is to be $50 million. His wealth comes from a combination of his long playing career, executive salary, endorsements, and investments.
Even after retirement, his continued involvement in hockey has ensured a steady income.
Contract
Yzerman currently serves as the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings. Some reports suggest his salary is between $3–4 million per year as an NHL executive.
Career Earnings
| Year(s) | Team/Role | Earnings (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 1983–2006 | Detroit Red Wings (Player) | $75 million (salaries + bonuses) |
| 2010–2018 | Tampa Bay Lightning (GM) | $20 million |
| 2019–2025 | Detroit Red Wings (GM) | $25 million |
| Total | — | $120 million+ |
Endorsements
- Nike
- CCM Hockey Gear
- Upper Deck Trading Cards
Career Stats
| Year | Team | GP | G | A | Pts | +/- | PIM | Notable Event |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1983-84 | Detroit Red Wings | 80 | 39 | 48 | 87 | -22 | 22 | Rookie season debut |
| 1988-89 | Detroit Red Wings | 80 | 65 | 90 | 155 | +19 | 33 | Career-high points |
| 1996-97 | Detroit Red Wings | 82 | 24 | 45 | 69 | +29 | 26 | First Stanley Cup |
| 1997-98 | Detroit Red Wings | 75 | 24 | 44 | 68 | +17 | 18 | Second Stanley Cup |
| 2001-02 | Detroit Red Wings | 52 | 10 | 32 | 42 | +16 | 12 | Third Stanley Cup |
| 2005-06 | Detroit Red Wings | 61 | 10 | 22 | 32 | +6 | 16 | Final NHL season |
Major Achievements
- 3× Stanley Cup Champion (1997, 1998, 2002)
- Conn Smythe Trophy Winner (1998)
- Lester B. Pearson Award Winner (1989)
- 10× NHL All-Star
- Olympic Gold Medalist with Canada (2002)
- Member of Hockey Hall of Fame (2009)
- Retired as 6th all-time leading scorer in NHL history at the time
- Jersey No. 19 retired by Detroit Red Wings
- Executive success as Tampa Bay Lightning GM, building a championship team
FAQs
Q1. What makes Steve Yzerman such an iconic figure in hockey?
Steve Yzerman became iconic because of his long loyalty to the Detroit Red Wings, where he spent 22 seasons. He wasn’t only a top scorer but also a leader who brought three Stanley Cups to Detroit.
Q2. How did Steve Yzerman’s early life shape his career?
Growing up in Ontario after being born in British Columbia, Steve developed his hockey skills on outdoor rinks with constant support from his family.
His early exposure to competitive hockey prepared him for success in junior leagues. That strong foundation eventually helped him stand out in the NHL Draft at just 17 years old.
Q3. What are Steve Yzerman’s biggest career achievements?
Yzerman’s major achievements include winning three Stanley Cups, earning an Olympic gold medal in 2002, and being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2009.
He also won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP and the Lester B. Pearson Award. His number 19 jersey was retired by Detroit, which remains one of the highest honors in sports.
Q4. How successful was Steve Yzerman financially during his career?
During his playing days, Yzerman earned around $75 million in salaries and bonuses. Later, as an executive with Tampa Bay and Detroit, he added millions more.
By 2025, his total net worth stands at about $50 million, proving that his financial success matched his sporting legacy.
Q5. What is Steve Yzerman doing now after retiring as a player?
Since retiring in 2006, Steve Yzerman has worked in hockey management. He first served as general manager of the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he built a championship-caliber roster.
Currently, he is the Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Detroit Red Wings, guiding the franchise through a rebuild.
Q6. How would you describe Steve Yzerman’s leadership style?
Yzerman led by example rather than relying on flashy speeches. He worked harder than most, played through injuries, and put the team’s success above personal glory.
Because of this, his teammates trusted him completely. His leadership style balanced toughness with humility, which helped transform Detroit into a winning team.
Q7. Who is Steve Yzerman’s spouse, and how does he balance family with his career?
Steve Yzerman has been married to Lisa Brennan since 1989, and they have three daughters together. Despite the demands of hockey, he always made time for family life.
Q8. Did Steve Yzerman play in international tournaments for Canada?
Yes, Yzerman proudly represented Canada in several international tournaments. His greatest achievement came in 2002 when he helped Canada win Olympic gold at the Salt Lake City Winter Games.
Q9. What hobbies does Steve Yzerman enjoy outside of hockey?
Away from the rink, Steve enjoys golfing, fishing, and spending quality time with his family. These hobbies allow him to relax after years of high-pressure competition.
Q10. How do fans remember Steve Yzerman today?
Fans remember him as “The Captain,” a leader who changed the Detroit Red Wings forever. His loyalty, discipline, and class both on and off the ice set him apart.
