DETROIT — Chris Ilitch hears the "sell the team" chants at Little Caesars Arena and understands why they're happening.
The Red Wings aren't doing well enough, and fans are frustrated.
"Fans absolutely have the right to tell us how they feel," Ilitch said during a 15-minute chat with Wings' beat writers Thursday, Oct. 15 before the Wings' game against Philadelphia.
"This is their team, so I understand their frustration. I share it, to be frank. My thoughts are that fans want to see our team win on the ice and I do to, and as the person who is accountable for this franchise, it's why I made the change (in general managers) we are deliberate in our search."
Ilitch touched on a vareity of topics, including the trade request by Dylan Larkin, the search for a general manager, and how the organization is perceived around the league:
More: Dylan Larkin-Wings trade saga slogs on. What we know
▶ Ilitch said the search for someone to lead hockey operations continues, with no timeframe to make the hire.
"I'll make the hire when I find the right person," Ilitch said. "It's too important to this organization, we have to find the right leader."
▶ Ilitch wouldn't get into discussions he's had with Larkin, but said he supports all of his players.
"I've talked to Dylan, I talk to all of our players," Ilitch said. "I support them as much as I can. I would say I support Dylan and every player on our roster. I do everything I can in terms of resources support to make sure our players can reach their full potential. I support all of our players until they're not a Red Wing. They have my full support."
▶ Ilitch feels interim general manager Shawn Horcoff is doing a good job, including this week signing forward Alex DeBrincat to a contract extension.
"I support Shawn in the work he's doing," Ilitch said. "He's doing a real good job in his role. He stepped right in and hit the ground running. He has my full confidence."
This is a developing story. Come back soon for an updated version.
tkulfan@detroitnews.com
@tkulfan
This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Chris Ilitch says he understands Wings fans' frustration: 'I share it'