As the Ilitch Companies continue to grow in scale and global reach, the organization is enhancing its enterprise risk management strategy to support long-term success and operational excellence across its family of companies. Reflecting that evolution, Tenda—one of the Ilitch Companies’ family of businesses—announced today that Cheryl Baker has been named Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management.

Founded in 2020, Tenda was established to deliver high-quality, cost-effective insurance solutions for the Ilitch Companies and their stakeholders. Since then, it has grown into a trusted provider of health, property and casualty, executive life, and other customized risk management programs.

With more than 25 years of experience in the insurance and risk management industry, Cheryl brings deep expertise and strategic leadership in enterprise risk management, corporate claims and captive insurance solutions.

Cheryl is also a well-regarded leader in the broader risk management community. She serves on the board of the Captive Insurance Companies Association (CICA), chairs its Amplify Women Committee, and acts as Secretary of the Detroit Chapter of the Risk and Insurance Management Society. Her accomplishments have earned her several industry honors, including being named Risk Manager of the Year by Captive Review in 2022, recognized as a Top 20 Best and Brightest Captive Owner by Captive Review from 2022 through 2025, and selected as one of Captive International’s Influential Women in Captive Insurance in 2024.

Her appointment comes at a meaningful time for Tenda, as the company continues to gain national recognition for its leadership in captive insurance. Most recently, Tenda was honored with the 2025 Outstanding Captive Award by CICA, reflecting Tenda’s commitment to innovation and customized risk solutions.

In this new role, Cheryl will lead enterprise risk and captive insurance operations, with the Risk Management team now reporting directly to her. Her appointment reflects a commitment to a more connected and strategic approach to risk, one that improves coordination, strengthens oversight, and aligns risk strategy across the Ilitch Companies.

“Cheryl’s experience, integrity, and deep understanding of complex risk environments make her exceptionally well-suited to take on this important role,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO, Ilitch Companies. “Her leadership will help us sharpen our enterprise risk approach while continuing to support the strategic growth of Tenda and the broader Ilitch Companies.”

Cheryl most recently served as Head of North American Risk Management at Stellantis, where she led risk financing and captive strategies for the global automotive group. Prior to that, she spent over a decade at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, managing professional liability, cyber risks, corporate claims and captive insurance operations. She also held several leadership roles during her 13-year tenure at Marsh, including Assistant Vice President in Detroit.

“As risk exposures become more interconnected and dynamic across the Ilitch Companies, I’m excited to help advance a more integrated, enterprise-wide risk strategy,” Cheryl said. “It’s a privilege to join this team and continue building on the strong foundation that’s already in place.”

Cheryl holds an MBA from Louisiana State University–Shreveport and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan–Dearborn. She also holds several top industry designations, including Associate in Risk Management, Certified Insurance Counselor, Certified Risk Manager and Associate in Captive Insurance.

She resides in Michigan with her husband, Eric, and their three children.

Forward Was Selected 13th Overall by Detroit at 2025 NHL Entry Draft

The Detroit Red Wings today signed forward Carter Bear to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Bear, 18, was selected by the Red Wings in the first round (13th overall) of the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, held at L.A. Live’s Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles on June 27-28. The 6-foot, 179-pound forward also participated at Detroit's Development Camp from June 30-July 3 at the BELFOR Training Center inside Little Caesars Arena. Bear played the 2024-25 season with the Western Hockey League’s Everett Silvertips and ranked among the team leaders with 40 goals (1st), 42 assists (4th), 82 points (1st), a plus-33 rating (7th), 77 penalty minutes (2nd), 14 power play goals (1st), 27 power play points (T1st), two shorthanded goals (T2nd), nine game-winning goals (1st) and 185 shots (4th) in 56 games. He also earned a place on the WHL’s Western Conference Second All-Star Team. Bear spent the entire 2023-24 campaign with the Silvertips, recording 57 points (25-32-57), a plus-23 rating and 26 penalty minutes in 67 regular-season games, in addition to four assists in nine postseason contests. In total, Bear has compiled 141 points (66-75-141), a plus-53 rating and 103 penalty minutes in 142 WHL games with the Silvertips since 2022-23.

A native of Winnipeg, Man., Bear played the majority of the 2022-23 season with the Winnipeg Thrashers in the Manitoba U18 Hockey League, capturing Most Valuable Player honors and a spot on the league’s First All-Star Team after recording 59 points (32-27-59) and 24 penalty minutes in 31 regular-season games, along with two points (1-1-2) in three postseason matchups. Bear also spent the 2021-22 season with the Thrashers’ under-18 squad, notching 42 points (25-17-42) and 34 penalty minutes in 39 regular-season games, in addition to two points (1-1-2) in three playoff games. Bear skated with Team Manitoba at the 2021-22 WHL Cup, finishing with one assist in five appearances.

Home Opener for Detroit’s Centennial Season will feature Original Six matchup with Montreal Canadiens at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday, October 9

The Detroit Red Wings today released their schedule for the 2025-26 regular season and the team’s 100th overall in the National Hockey League. The Red Wings will open their Centennial season on home ice at Little Caesars Arena with an Original Six matchup against the Montreal Canadiens on Thursday, Oct. 9 at 7 p.m.

Ticket on-sale information for the preseason and regular season, including special theme nights and promotional giveaways, will be announced at a later date. Fans can sign up for the priority presale list today for the opportunity to purchase tickets before the general public by visiting the 2025-26 Priority Presale page.

Fans can also choose from two available 10-game plans, presented by Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, including the New Year’s Eve game plan and the Thanksgiving Eve game plan. Visit DetroitRedWings.com/10gameplans for more information.

This season’s 82-game slate features 26 games against Atlantic Division rivals, 24 games against the remaining Eastern Conference’s Metropolitan Division and two games against all 16 Western Conference foes.

Of the 41 NHL games to be played at Little Caesars Arena, 20 are scheduled for weekends including five Fridays, nine Saturdays and six Sundays. The Red Wings will spend the most time on home ice during the month of November, when they host nine of 14 games scheduled for that month.

The Red Wings will open the 2025-26 season with five consecutive Atlantic Division matchups, starting on Thursday, Oct. 9 against the Montreal Canadiens at 7 p.m. before hosting the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. Detroit’s first road game of the season will be the following Monday, Oct. 13, when facing the Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena at 4 p.m., before returning to Little Caesars Arena for matchups against the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers (Wednesday, Oct. 15) and Tampa Bay Lightning (Friday, Oct. 17).

On Tuesday, Oct. 28, the team will begin a five-game road trip out West starting with the St. Louis Blues and ending with the Vegas Golden Knights on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Upon returning to Detroit, the Red Wings will play four of their nine home games during November, facing off against the New York Rangers on Friday, Nov. 7, Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday, Nov. 9, Anaheim Ducks on Thursday, Nov. 13, and Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, Nov. 15. Detroit will play games both the day before and after Thanksgiving, hosting the Nashville Predators on Wednesday, Nov. 26 and Tampa Bay on Friday, Nov. 28.

December will feature the longest road trip of the season for Detroit, beginning with a stop in Columbus on Thursday, Dec. 4 before the team heads to Seattle on Saturday, Dec. 6 to begin its Western leg of the trip. The Red Wings will end the six-game road trip the following Saturday, Dec. 13 with a stop in Chicago before returning home to Detroit. Little Caesars Arena will once again be home to a New Year’s Eve game at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 31, when the Winnipeg Jets make their sole trip to Detroit this season.

January will begin with a pair of games against the Pittsburgh Penguins, starting first at PPG Paints Arena on Thursday, Jan. 1 before the Red Wings host the Penguins at Little Caesars Arena on Saturday, Jan. 3 for a 12 p.m. matinee. Later in the month, Detroit will play in its 11th back-to-back set, facing Toronto at Scotiabank Arena on Wednesday, Jan. 21 before heading to Minnesota for a matchup with the Wild on Thursday, Jan. 22.

The four-game slate for February will be entirely on the road, starting with a two-game trip against the Colorado Avalanche (Monday, Feb. 2) and Utah Mammoth (Wednesday, Feb. 4). The NHL will then break for the 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Milan and Cortina, scheduled from Feb. 11 to Feb. 22. Upon returning to NHL action, the Red Wings will hit the road beginning Thursday, Feb. 26 for a three-game stretch ending in Nashville on Monday, March 2.

Eastern Conference matchups will dominate the March schedule for Detroit, highlighted by seven games scheduled against Atlantic Division opponents including the Florida Panthers (March 6 at Little Caesars Arena and March 10 at Amerant Bank Arena), Tampa Bay Lightning (March 12 at Amalie Arena), Montreal Canadiens (March 19 at Little Caesars Arena), Boston Bruins (March 21 at Little Caesars Arena), Ottawa Senators (March 24 at Little Caesars Arena) and Buffalo Sabres (March 27 at KeyBank Center).

The final home game of the season will take place on Saturday, April 11 when the Red Wings host the New Jersey Devils at 5 p.m. for Fan Appreciation Night. Detroit will then end the 2025-26 regular season campaign with a pair of Atlantic Division games on the road, starting first with the Lightning on Monday, April 13. Detroit’s regular season finale will take place at Amerant Bank Arena on Wednesday, April 15, against the Panthers at 7:00 p.m.

2022 First-Round Pick Was Tied for Fourth Among NHL Rookies with 19 Goals in 2024-25

Detroit Red Wings forward Marco Kasper has been named the 2024-25 Red Wings Rookie of the Year by the Detroit Sports Media (DSM).

Kasper, 21, skated in 77 games with the Red Wings during the 2024-25 season and ranked among the NHL’s rookie leaders with 19 goals (T4th), 18 assists (8th), 37 points (7th), 34 penalty minutes (T10th), three game-winning goals (T5th), one overtime goal (T3rd) and 145 shots (5th). The 6-foot-1, 197-pound forward recorded the most points by a Red Wings rookie in a single season since Lucas Raymond (23-34-57 in 82 GP) and Moritz Seider (7-43-50 in 82 GP) both reached the 50-point mark in 2021-22. Kasper picked up his first career NHL point with an assist in his season debut on Oct. 19 at Nashville and scored his first career NHL goal on Nov. 15 at Anaheim. He also netted his first career overtime goal on April 11 at Tampa Bay. Kasper (21 years, 3 days) became the fourth-youngest player in Red Wings history at the time of his first career overtime goal, behind Steve Yzerman on Oct. 26, 1983 (18 years, 170 days), Raymond on Nov. 27, 2021 (19 years, 244 days) and Seider on Nov. 6, 2021 (20 years, 214 days).

Originally selected by the Red Wings in the first round (8th overall) of the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, Kasper logged two points (1-1-2) and seven penalty minutes in two appearances with the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins to begin the 2024-25 campaign. The Innsbruck, Austria, native spent the entire 2023-24 season with the Griffins, recording 35 points (14-21-35), a plus-nine rating and 30 penalty minutes in 71 regular-season games, in addition to seven points (4-3-7) and 14 penalty minutes in nine Calder Cup Playoff matchups. Kasper made his NHL debut as an 18-year-old on April 2, 2023 at Toronto, recording one shot and three hits in 14:59 of ice time.

The DSM Red Wings Rookie of the Year Award dates back to the 1948-49 NHL season. Previous recipients of the award include Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin and four Calder Memorial Trophy winners: Seider, Roger Crozier, Glenn Hall and Terry Sawchuk.

The Detroit Tigers have the longest running Negro Leagues celebration in the MLB and this year, the team made that celebration bigger, better and more inclusive.

Black in Baseball Weekend (June 13-15) was a recognition of the past, present and future; a celebration of the city, the culture and the contributions of Black baseball players on Tigers history and the history of the game of baseball, as a whole.

“Black in Baseball Weekend was a true celebration of culture, history, and community — and Detroit showed up in every way,” said Asia Gholston, Vice President of Brand Marketing at Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “Seeing fans connect with the history of the Negro Leagues at the Q&A, cheering during Ludacris’ post‑game concert, and celebrating with our local youth athletes on Sunday was incredibly moving. This weekend reminded us that honoring the past and investing in the future can happen in the same space — and that’s what makes this event so powerful.”

By intertwining baseball, community impact efforts and Detroit’s history, the Tigers hosted over 119,000 fans throughout the ballpark and countless more in the community to celebrate Black excellence in baseball and beyond.

Thursday, June 12

The Tigers’ Black Diamond Dinner brought together former Negro Leagues players, community leaders and Tigers legends to celebrate the History of the Detroit Stars, Detroit Tigers and the game of baseball. The event included recognizing Rajai Davis as the 2025 recipient of the Willie Horton African American Legacy Award.

“With Willie, our connection started the moment I came over to Detroit and met him; he was very supportive of my style of play,” said Rajai Davis at the dinner. “It’s an honor to receive any award, but to be able to receive an award from a man who hit over 300 home runs in the major leagues, it’s not taken lightly. He was really, really good at what he did and to receive that honor, that award, from a guy who had some really great accomplishments on the field, it’s an honor for me.”

Friday, June 13

Friday kicked off the series between the Tigers and the Cincinnati Reds on the diamond, but so much more throughout the ballpark and beyond.

Members of the Tigers organization, Black Sports Professionals and college students mixed and mingled at the Black in Baseball Career Mixer on Friday afternoon in a suite at the ballpark.

“To be here to celebrate Black in Baseball is right on par with what our organization is about, said Jessica Gray, President of Black Sports Professional’s Detroit chapter. “It’s about cultivating communities, celebrating Black and Brown sports professionals and championing us as well. Being able to network with other professionals and help connect and network with college students, it’s so important because you can’t be what you can’t see.”

Phoenix Hollier is a senior at Detroit Mercy, studying business administration and is a member of Alpha Fi Alpha Fraternity Inc. He attended the mixer, participated in the step show and then, enjoyed the game.

“In everybody’s lifetime, there’s some type of experience where you realize it’s so much bigger than yourself,” said Hollier. “Being in this environment and being around so much greatness, I’m kind of in awe.”

Danard Lenoir is the manager of video production for Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. While a lot of the behind-the-scenes aspects of Black in Baseball he was involved in, (like helping film and edit conversations with Willie Horton), he still said he was inspired by others at the mixer and attending it was a highlight.

“I think the collective community effort to bring these people together, not just within our organization but to reach out to the community and bring ALL of these people together is extremely impactful, even to an employee within this organization,” said Lenoir. “We’ve been presented with a platform and an opportunity to talk to people that look like us, do what we do on a high level and create new initiatives outside of our day-to-day work.”

Attendees of the mixer then joined the rest of the crowd outside Comerica Park for a block party, which included a Black-owned business market, food trucks, retail popups and a step show from the Wayne State University National Pan-Hellenic Council.

Friday’s pregame ceremony continued the celebrations. Starting with the Passing of the Bat ceremony – an annual tradition during the Tiger’s Negro Leagues celebration – where a bat is passed from former Negro Leagues players, to some of the first Black Tigers players, to current Black players and staff for the Tigers and eventually to the year’s recipient; Kole Waterman was the 2025 honoree.

“I was one of the first baseball players to play on the Hamtramck field when they rebuilt it,” said Waterman. “So having that honor and then coming back to get this award it means a lot to me. I've had four or five my own teammates get this award too. It's kind of cool, following in their footsteps, people I’ve looked up to in the past… like a brotherhood. This honor and this award, it means the world to me.”

The ceremonial first pitch came from the granddaughter of Negro League Hall of Famer, Norman “Turkey” Stearnes, Katera Stearnes. Stearnes daughters, Joyce Stearnes Thompson and Rosilyn Stearnes-Brown then sang the national anthem. Detroit native and multiplatinum rapper, Tee Grizzley, threw out the honorary first pitch and the game was then underway.

Friday’s rain was no deterrent, it seemed, with a ballpark full of orange ponchos and Olde English D hats. That energy from the fans helped the Tigers pull out an 11-5 victory over the Reds before Comerica Park transformed into a concert venue to host three-time Grammy Award winner, Ludacris.

A setlist that included Roll Out, Move, All I Do Is Win, What’s Your Fantasy, Get Back and even Justin Bieber’s Baby had Comerica Park rocking long after the final out of the ballgame.

Saturday, June 14

Saturday morning saw over 130 kids attend a free baseball skills clinic at the Detroit Riverfront for the Tigers’ Play Ball Weekend Clinic. Play Ball Weekend is an annual MLB initiative, helping bring baseball and softball to children throughout the country.

"I had two children in the event today, and they absolutely LOVED it,” said Joe Doute on the Tigers’ Play Ball Clinic. “Thanks to the whole Tigers team for everything!”

Back at Comerica Park, the first 15,000 fans who entered the ballpark received a Detroit Stars jersey, designed by Detroit native and founder of Joyshed, Randall Yarborough.

“This jersey is a tribute to the Detroit Stars and the legacy of Negro League baseball—a legacy built by Black communities who turned passion into opportunity and carved a path for those who would one day play on the biggest stage,” said Yarborough. “Every element carries their spirit. The hand-drawn type across the chest, the red star bursting into a blue faded base—each detail honors the players, the neighborhoods and the pride that made this game bigger than the field. This is more than a jersey. It’s a symbol of where we’ve been and what we carry forward.”

Turkey Stearnes’ daughters picked up the mics again for a rendition of Lift Every Voice and Sing, to kick off a pregame ceremony recognizing seven former Negro Leagues players: Johnny Walker, Minnie Forbes, Ron Teasley, Charles Willis, Clinton Forge, Pedro Sierra and Sam Allen. Sierra then threw out the ceremonial first pitch before the Tigers hosted the Reds for game two of the series at their 29th annual Negro Leagues Tribute Game.

Sunday, June 15

The final day of Black in Baseball Weekend kept the theme of any usual Chevy Sunday Kids Day, and focused on the future generations.

Kaleb Johnson and Kyle Terry, the two MVPs from the participating high schools that competed in the Black Baseball Motor City Classic over Memorial Day Weekend, teamed up together to throw and catch the ceremonial first pitch.

“Throwing the first pitch at the Tigers game on Sunday was a moment I’ll never forget,” said Johnson, a senior at Detroit Edison Public School Academy High School. “Being named MVP of the Black Baseball Motor City Classic made it even better. It wasn’t just about the pitch it was about history, and showing that with hard work and heart, you can reach your goals. I hope it helps the next generation dream big and go after what they love.”

Following the first pitch, The Detroit Youth Choir performed the National Anthem and to celebrate Father’s Day, children of uniformed personnel stood with them during the National Anthem.

Community Impact

Throughout the weekend the Tigers donated over 1,300 tickets to children and community organizations including local softball and baseball athletes, Play Ball Detroit and Play Ball Weekend participants, Black Baseball Motor City Classic participants, students and more.

Tickets are on sale now for two marquee events celebrating the Detroit Red Wings Centennial. Fans can experience the Hockeytown Centennial FanFest, a four-day immersive tribute to 100 years of Red Wings hockey, taking place November 6-9, 2025, at MotorCity Casino Hotel. In addition, 100 Years of Hockeytown: A Night at the Fox Theatre, a one-night-only unique multimedia celebration, will be held on Saturday, November 8 at Detroit’s iconic Fox Theatre, bringing Red Wings history to life through music, video and live storytelling. Additional details including confirmed alumni and ticket package information are available at DetroitRedWings.com/100.

Hockeytown Centennial FanFest

This is an immersive, multi-day event celebrating the legacy of one of hockey’s most iconic franchises. The event will bring together Red Wings alumni and fans from all generations and will feature:

• Alumni meet-and-greets and autograph sessions

• Exhibits showcasing rare and historic team artifacts

• Interactive, family-friendly activations

• Exclusive Red Wings Centennial merchandise

• Special programming honoring 100 years of Red Wings history
‍

100 Years of Hockeytown: A Night at the Fox Theatre

As part of FanFest weekend, 100 Years of Hockeytown: A Night at the Fox Theatre will offer a one-night-only multimedia experience, blending music, archival footage and live storytelling by Red Wings legends to bring a century of Hockeytown history to life.

This production offers a rare, behind-the-scenes journey into the soul of Hockeytown - told by the icons who lived it. Spanning generations, the show moves through the eras - from the Original Six to the Grind Line to the modern-day heroes - transporting the audience through time.

Red Wings legends, beloved alumni and key figures throughout the franchise’s storied past will take the stage to share never-before-heard stories, personal reflections and defining moments that shaped Detroit’s hockey legacy.

Backed by an evocative soundtrack that captures the spirit of each decade from a live band, immersive video projections, dramatic lighting and deep storytelling, each chapter unfolds like a live documentary - raw, emotional and deeply human. From the dressing room to the ice, fans will experience the grit, glory, heartbreak and triumph that made Hockeytown what it is today.

Ticket Options

A range of ticket packages for FanFest are available to suit every level of fan engagement:

Four-Day VIP Experience

Celebrate 100 years of Hockeytown with the ultimate VIP package. This four-day all-access pass includes daily entry to the Hockeytown Centennial FanFest, exclusive alumni meet-and-greets, autograph access and unlimited food and beverage in a private VIP lounge. Enjoy premium perks like VIP parking, a dedicated entrance, commemorative credential, plus a special keepsake gift—making it a must-have for every die-hard Red Wings fan.

Single-Day VIP Experience

Enjoy access to the Hockeytown Centennial FanFest, exclusive alumni meet-and-greets, autograph access and unlimited food and beverage in a private VIP lounge, with VIP parking, a dedicated entrance and a commemorative credential, plus a special keepsake gift.

Four-Day General Admission Pass

Experience all four days of the Hockeytown Centennial FanFest. Enjoy daily access to exhibits, activations, an autograph session and special programming, plus complimentary parking each day. It’s your ticket to celebrate 100 years of Red Wings history.

Single-Day General Admission Ticket

Join the celebration with a one-day general admission pass to the Hockeytown Centennial FanFest. Explore exhibits, activations, an autograph session and special programming—all with the convenience of complimentary parking.

Upgrade Option: The Signature Collection

This limited-edition package includes a framed Centennial jersey signed by every Red Wings alumnus in attendance. Each jersey will be delivered after the event. Quantities are limited.

Tickets for the Hockeytown Centennial FanFest and 100 Years of Hockeytown: A Night at the Fox Theatre are now available at DetroitRedWings.com/100

‍

• Numerous combinations of Classic Pizzas, Crazy Combo, Pretzel Crust, Crazy Puffs, and even the new Fantastic Four-N-One Pizza!

• Each $9.99 combo includes at least two of the brand’s most popular items, giving customers more for their money  

Little Caesars, proudly known for providing the best value in pizza*, continues its legacy with the launch of its More for $9.99 Menu. Enjoy an affordable feast of your favorites or mix and match to make everyone happy with the perfect combination for a lunchtime treat, dinner with friends, movie night, or gameday spread.  

The new More for $9.99 Menu is a value vault of flavor, containing many possibilities for beloved classics and new favorites. Choose between these delicious pairings for $9.99 each:

• Two Large Classic Pepperoni or Cheese Pizzas, or one of each flavor

• A Classic Pepperoni Pizza and an order of Crazy Puffs

• The new Fantastic FOUR-N-ONE pizza with a Crazy Combo that includes Crazy Bread and Crazy Sauce

• A Pretzel Crust Pizza with a Crazy Combo that includes Crazy Bread and Crazy Sauce

• A Crazy Puffs Party Pack with twelve Pepperoni or Cheese Crazy Puffs, or a combination of both flavors

“As the value leader in pizza, we don’t follow trends—we set them. Our new $9.99 menu is a bold move that delivers unbeatable variety and flavor at a price that speaks for itself,” said Greg Hamilton, CMO at Little Caesars. “We know our customers expect more from Little Caesars, and this menu proves we’re ready to deliver—again.”

Little Caesars guests are passionate and value-driven, two qualities that influenced the creation of the More for $9.99 Menu. Little Caesars makes it easy to order and enjoy, providing the answer to all value meal questions, no strings attached.

The More for $9.99 Menu is more than just a value menu—it’s the key to a satisfying meal that keeps you, your taste buds, and your wallet happy.  

The More for $9.99 Menu is coming to Little Caesars nationwide on July 7th, 2025 and is available online only at all participating locations.

2025 AHL Hall of Fame Inductee Spent Parts of Three Seasons as Goaltending Coach with OHL’s Windsor Spitfires

Detroit Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman today announced that the team has hired Michael Leighton as Goaltending Coach.

Leighton, 44, joins the organization after spending parts of three seasons as Goaltending Coach of the Ontario Hockey League’s Windsor Spitfires from 2021-24. During his tenure with the Spitfires, Leighton helped the team win back-to-back Western Conference regular-season titles in 2021-22 and 2022-23. The Spitfires also clinched a berth in the 2022 OHL Championship Series, falling to the Hamilton Bulldogs in seven games. Leighton began his coaching career after playing 18 seasons of professional hockey from 2001-19.

Originally selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the sixth round (165th overall) of the 1999 NHL Entry Draft, Leighton posted a 37-43-10-4 record with a 2.98 goals-against average, a 0.900 save percentage and four shutouts in 110 regular-season appearances with the Blackhawks, Nashville Predators, Philadelphia Flyers and Carolina Hurricanes. Leighton became the first goaltender in Blackhawks history to earn a shutout in his NHL debut, stopping all 31 shots he faced in a goalless tie on Jan. 8, 2003 vs. Phoenix. He also logged an 8-4 record with a 2.54 goals-against average, a 0.913 save percentage and three shutouts in 16 postseason contests, helping the Flyers reach the 2010 Stanley Cup Final. Leighton tied an NHL record for most shutouts in a single Stanley Cup Playoff series, collecting three shutouts in five starts during the 2010 Eastern Conference Final vs. Montréal.

Leighton also played parts of 15 seasons in the American Hockey League, earning induction into the AHL Hall of Fame in 2025. In total, Leighton compiled a 250-186-55 record with a 2.38 goals-against average, a 0.916 save percentage and 50 shutouts in 507 AHL games with the Norfolk Admirals, Rochester Americans, Portland Pirates, Philadelphia/Adirondack Phantoms, Albany River Rats, Rockford IceHogs, Charlotte Checkers, Syracuse Crunch, Chicago Wolves, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, Ontario Reign and Utica Comets. His 50 shutouts are the most by a goaltender in AHL history, surpassing the mark held by Johnny Bower (45). Leighton also owned a 13-12 record with a 1.67 goals-against average, a 0.946 save percentage and five shutouts in 28 Calder Cup Playoff games. He holds the AHL record for most saves in a single game, stopping 98-of-101 shots in a five-overtime contest with Albany on April 24, 2008 vs. Philadelphia.

Leighton played in five AHL All-Star Classics (2002, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2017) and was named the recipient of the 2007-08 Aldege “Baz” Bastien Memorial Award as the league’s most outstanding goaltender after finishing with a 28-25-4 record with a 2.10 goals-against average, a 0.931 save percentage and seven shutouts in 58 appearances with Albany. Leighton also earned a place on the AHL’s Rookie Team in 2001-02 after logging a 27-16-8 record with a 2.14 goals-against average, a 0.920 save percentage and six shutouts in 52 games with Norfolk. Additionally, Leighton spent the 2013-14 campaign with Donbass Donetsk in the Kontinental Hockey League, showing a 20-16-6 record with a 1.74 goals-against average, a 0.933 save percentage and six shutouts in 42 regular-season games. He also tallied a 3-4 record with a 2.57 goals-against average and a 0.908 save percentage in eight Gagarin Cup Playoff games.

A native of Petrolia, Ont., Leighton played three seasons with the Spitfires prior to turning professional, posting a 53-47-9 record with a 3.30 goals-against average, a 0.903 save percentage and three shutouts in 124 OHL games from 1998-01. Leighton also made 46 appearances with the Petrolia Jets in the Western Ontario Hockey League from 1996-98.

Entry into the UAE marks a major step in the brand’s global expansion strategy

Little Caesars, the world’s third-largest pizza chain, is officially expanding to the United Arab Emirates. The first store will open in July 2025 in the vibrant neighborhood of Al Barsha, Dubai, bringing the brand’s iconic HOT-N-READY® pizza—celebrated for its high quality, affordability, and convenience—to local pizza lovers. Two additional locations are set to follow soon after in the neighborhoods of Jebel Ali and Al Ghadeer, further expanding Little Caesars footprint across the UAE.

Little Caesars entry into Dubai marks a significant step in the brand’s global growth journey, introducing its signature menu and unmatched value to a new community of pizza lovers. The opening of the first Dubai location sets the stage for continued expansion across the region.

“Launching in Dubai marks an exciting milestone for Little Caesars as we continue expanding worldwide,” said Paula Vissing, President, Global Retail. “We’re thrilled to introduce pizza lovers in the UAE to our delicious offerings made with fresh ingredients and incredible value. With prices starting at just 24 AED for our large Classic Pizzas—including Pepperoni, Veggie, and Cheese—we’re bringing unbeatable affordability to a market known for its dynamic food scene. With Dubai’s rapid growth and diverse, vibrant population, we’re excited to serve this thriving community and become part of its culinary landscape.”

Little Caesars is excited to introduce its legendary pizza to Dubai, bringing a new option for those seeking delicious, high-quality food at a great price. To mark its entry into the UAE, the brand has crafted a menu designed with local preferences in mind, merging its global favorites with flavors that reflect the region’s diverse culinary tastes. With an emphasis on freshness, flavor, and everyday convenience, Little Caesars aims to become a staple for pizza fans across the city. As Dubai continues to grow as a global hub for culture and cuisine, Little Caesars is proud to offer a bold, value-driven choice for residents and visitors alike.

Little Caesars expansion into the United Arab Emirates is made possible through its relationship with Almutairi Restaurants Group the exclusive franchisee for the UAE market. Almutairi Restaurants is an experienced franchisee group with a strong track record, already operating multiple Little Caesars locations in Kuwait under Las Palmas Restaurant Co. This trusted relationship ensures the brand’s commitment to quality, value, and service will be carried forward in Dubai, while adapting thoughtfully to the preferences of the local community.

“We’re proud to bring Little Caesars to Dubai and introduce its world-famous pizza to this dynamic and diverse city,” said Abdulmohsan Al Mutairi, CEO Almutairi Restaurants Group  “Our experience in Kuwait has shown us the strong demand for high-quality, affordable pizza, and we’re excited to now serve the growing community in Dubai with that same passion and dedication.”

With deep regional expertise and a focus on operational excellence, Almutairi Restaurants Group is well-positioned to grow the Little Caesars brand across the UAE and deliver a fresh, exciting pizza experience to new guests.

Little Caesars debut in Dubai marks another exciting step in the brand’s ongoing global expansion, following the recent opening in Delhi NCR, India, earlier this month. As the brand grows its presence across the region, it remains committed to offering communities a flavorful, affordable dining experience that fits into their busy lifestyles. With its entry into the UAE, Little Caesars continues to build on its momentum, bringing its signature pizza to even more pizza lovers around the world.