Todd McLellan joked he wasn’t sure he could find his way back to his office, much less the correct locker room.
It’s been a whirlwind of a Christmas for the 57-year-old, who spent Friday getting acclimated to his new job as coach of the Detroit Red Wings. Most immediately, he had to deal with getting the team ready for the evening’s game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. To that end, McLellan has a message for his new team.
“What we’ve asked the players to do is play harder, to play faster and a little bit smarter,” he said. “Those are three simple things that I think we can control without any type of tactics or systematic structure play.
“And then the last thing is, the spirit of the team has to improve. When something like this happens, the spirit of the team is at a low. We’re going to work hard to build that back up.”
More:What is Todd McLellan’s first task in charge of Red Wings? Fix the team
General manager Steve Yzerman made the coaching change during the three-day Christmas break, relieving coach Derek Lalonde and assistant coach Bob Boughner of their duties. Trent Yawney will be McLellan’s new right-hand man alongside Alex Tanguay, who retained his job.
Yzerman pointed to the Wings’ 13-17-4 record and especially how listless the team looked in Monday’s 4-0 loss to the St. Louis Blues.
“I can’t give you the exact date or time, but as our season started and has progressed to today, you start to think about, how do you improve your team, how do we get going in the direction we want to or playing the way we want to,” Yzerman said. “You look at all different types of things. The first option is player personnel, to move things around and what not. And then as we’re getting closer to yesterday, start to think, we might have to make a change here.
“My thought process is, our team isn’t performing to what my expectations are. Whether anybody agrees with that or not – I have my own expectations of the team and why they aren’t, is because our players aren’t playing to each of their individual expectations. I have my own own expectation of each individual player. So collectively, we are where we are and we’re playing the way we are, and a decision comes at some point.”
Captain Dylan Larkin described the frustration that set in as the Wings fell in the NHL standings.
“Where we’re at, it’s been a frustrating start to the season,” he said. “Our last performance, the two games against Montreal – we’re missing something and ultimately Steve made the decision. It’s something you don’t want to happen. I really liked Derek and Bob as guys, they were really good people. But it felt like something needed to happen and now we move forward.”
McLellan and Yawney were at Little Caesars Arena Thursday night with Yzerman, getting a quick little preview of their new work space. It’s been a hectic few days for McLellan, who was at his home in Kelowna, British Columbia, when the switch became official. McLellan flew back to his home in Los Angeles (where he coached until last February) because as he put it, the last thing thought to bring to a Christmas vacation were suits.
So, not much sleep, but a great deal of excitement.
“Steve brought Trent and I here last night just to get familiar,” McLellan said. “I can’t even tell you how to get back to the locker room. There’s doors and nooks and crannies every where. There’s a good chance I could walk into the Leafs room. The facility is phenomenal. The market – Hockeytown – I know what that means. I saw it at some really good times. The goal is to get back there.”
Contact Helene St. James at hstjames@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @helenestjames. Read more on the Detroit Red Wings and sign up for our Red Wings newsletter. Her latest book, “The Franchise: Detroit Red Wings, A Curated History of the Red Wings,” was released October 2024. Her books, “On the Clock: Behind the Scenes with the Detroit Red Wings at the NHL Draft,” and “The Big 50: The Men and Moments that made the Detroit Red Wings” are available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Triumph Books. Personalized copies available via her e-mail.
In a recent press conference, Detroit Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan called on his team to step up their game and play with more intensity, speed, and intelligence on the ice.
McLellan emphasized the importance of playing harder, faster, and smarter in order to compete at the highest level in the NHL. He stressed that the Red Wings need to be more aggressive in their play, win more battles along the boards, and be more disciplined in their decision-making.
“We need to elevate our level of play if we want to be successful in this league,” McLellan said. “We have the talent and the skill, but we need to bring more energy and urgency to our game. We need to play with a sense of purpose and determination every time we step on the ice.”
McLellan’s message to the Red Wings is clear: it’s time to step up and show what they’re capable of. With his guidance and leadership, the team is poised to make significant improvements and compete with the best in the league. Detroit fans can expect to see a more aggressive and determined Red Wings team in the coming games.
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Boston Bruins at Columbus Blue Jackets (7 p.m. ET; FDSNOH, NESN)
All eyes will be on forward David Pastrnak, who leads the Bruins (19-13-4) with 35 points (12 goals, 23 assists) in 36 games. The right wing’s availability is up in the air after he left Boston’s 4-1 victory against the Washington Capitals on Monday with an upper-body injury. Defenseman Zach Werenski of the Blue Jackets (14-15-6) ranks third among defensemen in the NHL with 35 points (11 goals, 24 assists) in 35 games.
Carolina Hurricanes at New Jersey Devils (7 p.m. ET; FDSNSO, MSGSN)
The Devils (23-11-3) have been led this month by forward Jack Hughes, who has 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in 10 games. Meanwhile, goalie Jacob Markstrom has earned a shutout in his past two starts, making 12 saves in a 3-0 win against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Saturday and another 12 saves in a 5-0 win against the New York Rangers on Monday. The Hurricanes (21-12-1) are just 5-5-0 in December and 1-2-0 on their road trip, which will conclude in New Jersey.
Nashville Predators at St. Louis Blues (8 p.m. ET; FDSNMW, FDSNSO)
The Predators (11-17-7), who are finally trending in the right direction, hit the road after going 3-0-1 on a four-game homestand. Blues forward Dylan Holloway scored his first career hat trick in a 4-0 victory against the Detroit Red Wings on Monday, which ended a three-game losing streak for St. Louis (16-16-4).
Minnesota Wild at Dallas Stars (8 p.m. ET; FDSNWI, FDSNNO, Victory+)
The Wild (21-10-4) will be without forward and leading scorer Kirill Kaprizov because of a lower-body injury. Minnesota did get a boost with the return of Filip Gustavsson, who made 28 saves in a 4-3 win against the Blackhawks on Monday after missing four games with a lower-body injury. The Stars (20-13-0) defeated Utah 3-2 on Monday to avoid losing three consecutive games in regulation for the first time in 2 1/2 seasons under coach Pete DeBoer.
Vegas Golden Knights at San Jose Sharks (10:30 p.m. ET; SCRIPPS, NBCSCA)
Golden Knights (23-8-3) forward Tomas Hertl will return to San Jose for the first time since he was traded to Vegas on March 8. Hertl, who ranks sixth in Sharks history with 484 points (218 goals, 266 assists), had two assists against his former team in a 7-3 victory in Vegas on Oct. 26. Rookie Macklin Celebrini has earned at least one point in six of his past seven games for the Sharks (11-20-6), amassing 10 (three goals, seven assists) in that span.
The NHL is buzzing with anticipation as Todd McLellan is set to make his debut as the new head coach of the Detroit Red Wings. After spending the past five seasons with the Los Angeles Kings, McLellan is ready to lead his new team to success.
Fans are eager to see how McLellan’s coaching style will impact the Red Wings’ performance on the ice. With a strong track record of success in the league, including leading the San Jose Sharks to multiple playoff appearances, there is a sense of optimism surrounding the team.
McLellan’s debut comes at a crucial time for the Red Wings, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing season. With a fresh perspective and new strategies in place, the team is poised for a turnaround under McLellan’s leadership.
As the Red Wings take on their next opponent, all eyes will be on McLellan as he leads his team into battle. Fans can expect an exciting and competitive game as the Red Wings look to start the season off on the right foot under their new coach.
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The Detroit Red Wings turned to a familiar and successful face in making a coaching change.
Todd McLellan was named head coach of the Wings Thursday, on the third day of the NHL break, simultaneously with head coach Derek Lalonde and assistant coach Bob Boughner being relived of duties.
McLellan’s first game will be Friday, when the Wings host the Toronto Maple Leafs.
The Wings head into that game having – so the franchise hopes – reached a nadir with losing, 4-0, to the St. Louis Blues on Monday, part of a three-game losing streak.
McLellan, 57, takes over a team that has struggled far more than expected even though general manager Steve Yzerman did not upgrade the team during the off-season. The list of players who have disappointed and underperformed is long, starting with Vladimir Tarasenko, who is on track for 10 goals as a return on making $4.75 million this season and next.
McLellan was in charge of the team’s forwards and the power play during his tenure as an assistant. His stint with the Wings – who back then boasted a defense that numbered Nicklas Lidstrom and Niklas Kronwall, and a forward group headlined by Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk – launched McLellan onto a successful NHL head coaching career.
On June 11, 2008, the San Jose Sharks tabbed McLellan to become their new coach. He would end up the coach for the Western Conference All-Star team and lead the Sharks to their first Presidents’ Trophy with an NHL-leading 117 points to finish the regular season and finished third in voting for that season’s Jack Adams Award as coach of the year.
After the Sharks missed the playoffs in the 2015, McLellan and the Sharks agreed to mutually part ways on April 20. McLellan next coached the Canadian national team at the 2015 World Championship, where the team won gold with a perfect 10–0 record.[
More:Detroit Red Wings fire coach Derek Lalonde, replace him with assistant Todd McLellan
In May 2015, McLellan was named head coach of the then-rebuilding Edmonton Oilers. The Oilers replaced McLellan in November 2018.
From there, McLellan was named head coach of the Los Angeles Kings in April 2019, a job he held until he was let go on Feb. 2, 2024.
McLellan’s head coaching record in the NHL is 598-412-134, with nine playoff appearances.
Contact Helene St. James at hstjames@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @helenestjames. Read more on the Detroit Red Wings and sign up for our Red Wings newsletter.
After the recent firing of Jeff Blashill, the Detroit Red Wings have named Todd McLellan as their new head coach. But who exactly is Todd McLellan?
McLellan, a seasoned NHL coach, brings a wealth of experience to the Red Wings. He previously served as the head coach for the San Jose Sharks and the Edmonton Oilers, making multiple playoff appearances with both teams.
Known for his strategic mindset and ability to develop young talent, McLellan is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Red Wings’ roster. With a strong track record of success, fans are hopeful that McLellan can lead the team back to their former glory.
Stay tuned as we follow Todd McLellan’s journey with the Detroit Red Wings and see how he transforms the team in the upcoming season.
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DETROIT – Detroit Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman today announced that the team has named Todd McLellan the 29th Head Coach in franchise history and signed him to a multi-year contract. Additionally, the Red Wings have hired Trent Yawney as an Assistant Coach.
Head Coach Derek Lalonde and Associate Coach Bob Boughner have been relieved of their coaching duties, effective immediately.
McLellan, 57, rejoins the organization (Assistant Coach, 2005-08) with 16 seasons of NHL head coaching experience, posting a 598-412-134 regular-season record and a 42-46 postseason mark with the Los Angeles Kings (2019-24), Edmonton Oilers (2015-19) and San Jose Sharks (2008-15). His 598 regular-season wins are ranked 24th in NHL history and sixth-most among active coaches behind Paul Maurice (891), Lindy Ruff (876), Peter Laviolette (823), John Tortorella (757) and Peter DeBoer (632). Teams coached by McLellan have reached the 50-win mark three times and the 100-point plateau six times. McLellan’s teams have also advanced to the Stanley Cup Playoffs nine times, including six-consecutive postseason appearances with the Sharks. In recognition of his efforts, McLellan has twice been named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award as the NHL’s Coach of the Year (2008-09, 2016-17) and has coached at two NHL All-Star Games (2009, 2012).
Prior to returning to the Red Wings, McLellan spent parts of five seasons as Head Coach of the Los Angeles Kings from 2019-24. During his tenure with the Kings, McLellan posted a 164-130-44 regular-season record and a 5-8 postseason mark, leading the club to back-to-back Stanley Cup Playoff berths in 2021-22 and 2022-23. In all, McLellan ranks among the Kings’ all-time leaders with 338 games coached (5th), 164 wins (4th) and 372 points (4th). Before coaching the Kings, McLellan worked parts four seasons as bench boss of the Edmonton Oilers, compiling a 123-119-34 record and a 7-6 postseason ledger. McLellan places among Edmonton’s all-time leaders with 266 games coached (4th), 123 wins (4th) and 270 points (4th). In 2016-17, McLellan guided the Oilers to a 47-26-9 record, which marked a 33-point improvement over the previous campaign. During that season, the Oilers recorded their first 100-point campaign since 1986-87 and clinched a postseason berth for the first time since reaching the 2006 Stanley Cup Final.
McLellan made his NHL head coaching debut with the San Jose Sharks, where he remains the franchise’s all-time leader in games coached (540), wins (311), points (688) and postseason games coached (62). In all, McLellan compiled a 311-163-66 regular-season record and a 30-32 postseason mark in seven seasons with the Sharks from 2008-15, leading the club to the Stanley Cup Playoffs in each of his first six seasons behind the bench. During McLellan’s tenure, the Sharks reached the 40-win mark six times, eclipsed the 100-point mark four times, earned three-straight Pacific Division titles (2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11) and captured the first Presidents’ Trophy in franchise history (2008-09). The Sharks also made back-to-back appearances in the Western Conference Final in 2009-10 and 2010-11, in addition to reaching the Western Conference Semifinals in 2012-13.
Prior to joining the Sharks, McLellan spent three seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Red Wings from 2005-08, helping the organization win a Stanley Cup championship in 2008. During McLellan’s tenure, the Red Wings also earned three-consecutive Central Division titles (2005-06, 2006-07, 2007-08), two Presidents’ Trophies (2005-06, 2007-08) and one Clarence S. Campbell Bowl (2007-08). While with the Red Wings, McLellan was tasked with running Detroit’s power play, which finished first in the NHL in 2005-06 (22.1 percent) and third in 2007-08 (20.7 percent).
Before entering the NHL coaching ranks, McLellan worked four seasons as Head Coach of the American Hockey League’s Houston Aeros from 2001-05, showing a 154-129-37 record and leading the franchise to a Calder Cup title in 2003. McLellan led the Aeros to a Central Division title in 2002-03 and coached at the 2003 and 2004 AHL All-Star Games. McLellan spent five seasons coaching the Minnesota Wild’s primary affiliate, having led the International Hockey League’s Cleveland Lumberjacks to a 43-32-7 record in 2000-01.
A native of Melville, Sask., McLellan worked six seasons as Head Coach and General Manager of the Western Hockey League’s Swift Current Broncos from 1994-00, compiling a 250-176-49 regular-season record along with a Central Division title in 1995-96 and a East Division crown in 1999-00. He was named the WHL’s Executive of the Year in 1996-97 and Coach of the Year in 1999-00. McLellan previously served as Head Coach of the Battlefords North Stars of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League in 1992-94, leading the club to a 40-point improvement in his second season with the club. He was inducted into the SJHL Hall of Fame in 2024.
Prior to his coaching career, McLellan played two professional seasons in North America. Selected by the New York Islanders in the fifth round (104th overall) of the NHL Entry Draft, McLellan recorded two points (1-1-2) in five games with the club during the 1987-88 season. He also logged 70 points (25-45-70) and 49 penalty minutes in 107 games with the AHL’s Springfield Indians from 1987-89. McLellan racked up 164 points (66-98-164) and 127 penalty minutes in 178 games with the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades from 1983-87 before turning professional.
On the international stage, McLellan served as Head Coach of Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, where he coached Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin. McLellan also led Team Canada to a gold medal at the 2015 IIHF World Championship, marking the country’s first gold medal at the annual tournament since 2007. McLellan previously won a bronze medal as an Assistant Coach with Team Canada at the 2000 IIHF World Junior Championship.
Yawney, 59, joins the Red Wings after spending five seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Kings from 2019-24. He previously held the same position with the Oilers (2019-20), Anaheim Ducks (2014-18), Sharks (2008-11) and Chicago Blackhawks (1999-00). Additionally, Yawney worked two stints as Head Coach of the AHL’s Norfolk Admirals from 2000-05 and 2012-14, and also served as Associate Head Coach of the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch during the 2011-12 campaign. Yawney made his NHL head coaching debut with the Blackhawks, logging a 33-55-15 record in parts of two seasons with the club from 2005-07. On the international stage, Yawney was an Assistant Coach with Team Canada at the 2011 Spengler Cup. He also served as Head Coach at the 2007 IIHF World Under-18 Championship and worked as an Assistant Coach at the 2006 IIHF World Championship.
A native of Hudson Bay, Sask., Yawney played in 12 NHL seasons as a defenseman prior to his coaching career. Selected by Chicago in the third round (45th overall) of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft, Yawney registered 129 points (27-102-129) and 783 penalty minutes in 593 games with the Blackhawks, Calgary Flames and St. Louis Blues from 1987-99. Yawney represented his country at back-to-back IIHF World Championships in 1991 and 1992, winning a silver medal at the 1991 tournament. He also captained Team Canada at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Alta.
The Detroit Red Wings have officially named Todd McLellan as their new head coach. McLellan brings a wealth of experience and success to the team, having previously coached the San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers. With his proven track record of developing young talent and leading teams to the playoffs, Red Wings fans can expect an exciting new era under McLellan’s leadership. Welcome to Detroit, Coach McLellan! #LGRW #RedWings #ToddMcLellan #NewHeadCoach
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The Detroit Red Wings fired coach Derek Lalonde on Thursday and named Todd McLellan as his replacement.
The move was announced by general manager Steve Yzerman and comes with the Red Wings on a three-game skid and having lost nine of their past 12. They are 13-17-4 this season and are above only the lowly Buffalo Sabres in the Eastern Conference.
McLellan signed a multiyear contract to start his fourth NHL head coaching job after stints with San Jose, Edmonton and Los Angeles.
Lalonde was nearly midway through his third season with Detroit after winning the Stanley Cup twice as an assistant with Tampa Bay.
Assistant Bob Boughner was also fired, and Trent Yawney was hired to work on McLellan’s staff.
The Detroit Red Wings have made a major coaching change, firing head coach Derek Lalonde and replacing him with Todd McLellan. Lalonde, who had been with the team for just two seasons, was let go after the Red Wings failed to make the playoffs for the second year in a row.
McLellan, a veteran coach with previous stints with the San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the Red Wings. He is expected to bring a new level of leadership and expertise to the team as they look to turn things around and get back to their winning ways.
The decision to part ways with Lalonde and bring in McLellan signals a new direction for the Red Wings and a renewed commitment to success. Fans are hopeful that McLellan’s leadership will help the team reach their full potential and bring them back to the top of the league. Stay tuned for updates on how the team responds to their new coach’s guidance.
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Derek Lalonde was fired as coach of the Detroit Red Wings after two-plus seasons. He has been replaced by former Wings assistant coach Todd McLellan.
The team announced the news Thursday, on the third day of the NHL break. The move comes as the Wings are off to a disappointing start, just 13-17-4 as they near the halfway point of the season.
Lalonde, 52, was in his third year in charge of the Wings’ bench, having been named to the position on June 30, 2022. He went 89-86-23.
Yzerman spoke before the start of the season of wanting to see progress from last season, when the Wings chased a playoff spot all the way till Game 82. But the Wings instead looked like they regressed: They’ve been mediocre at best, at times showing signs of a competitive team, but too often, looking immature and lacking in energy and execution.
They would put on a good performance one game – one of their best came Oct. 24 in an emotional and energetic outing against the New Jersey Devils, and their best performance, on Nov. 9, only failed to gain points because of New York Rangers goalie Jonathan Quick.
But then, a week after the Rangers game, the Wings had their worst outing of the first quarter: They had their game in Anaheim in hand, leading by two goals – only to disintegrate in a mess of penalties and turnovers, and handing victory to the Ducks.
The Wings have made a major coaching change, relieving Derek Lalonde of his duties and naming Todd McLellan as the new head coach. McLellan brings a wealth of coaching experience to the team, having previously served as head coach for the San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers.
With a proven track record of success in the NHL, McLellan is expected to bring a new level of leadership and strategic thinking to the Wings. Fans are hopeful that his coaching style will help elevate the team to new heights and lead them to a successful season.
Stay tuned for updates on how McLellan’s coaching will impact the Wings’ performance on the ice. #Wings #NHL #CoachingChange
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The Detroit Red Wings fired coach Derek Lalonde on Thursday and named Todd McLellan as his replacement.
The move the day after Christmas was announced by general manager Steve Yzerman and comes with the Red Wings on a three-game skid and having lost nine of their past 12. They’ve lost 21 of their first 34 games this season and are above only the lowly Buffalo Sabres in the Eastern Conference.
Assistant Bob Boughner was also fired and Trent Yawney hired to work on McLellan’s staff. McLellan signed a multiyear contract to start his fourth NHL head coaching job after stints with San Jose, Edmonton and Los Angeles.
Lalonde was nearly midway through his third season with Detroit after winning the Stanley Cup twice as an assistant with Tampa Bay.
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In a shocking turn of events, the Detroit Red Wings have decided to part ways with head coach Derek Lalonde. After a disappointing season, the organization has announced that Todd McLellan will be taking over as the new head coach.
Lalonde, who joined the Red Wings in 2019, struggled to lead the team to success and failed to make it to the playoffs during his tenure. With the team in need of a fresh start, the decision was made to bring in McLellan, a seasoned coach with a proven track record of success.
McLellan, who previously coached the San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers, is known for his strategic approach to the game and his ability to motivate players. With his leadership, the Red Wings are hopeful that they can turn their fortunes around and return to their winning ways.
Fans are eager to see what changes McLellan will bring to the team and are hopeful that he can lead the Red Wings to a successful season. Only time will tell if this coaching change will be the spark that the team needs to get back on track.
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(CBS DETROIT) – The Detroit Red Wings announced it has relieved head coach Derek Lalonde and associate coach Bob Bougher after the team lost three straight games in the last week.
The team named former Los Angeles Kings coach Todd McLellan to lead the Red Wings. The announcement comes one day before the team takes on the Toronto Maple Leafs.
McLellan, who signed a multi-year contract, will be the franchise’s 29th coach.
This story is developing.
The Detroit Red Wings have made a major coaching change, firing head coach Derek Lalonde and naming Todd McLellan as their new bench boss.
Lalonde, who was hired as head coach in 2020, struggled to find success with the Red Wings, leading the team to a disappointing record of 15-36-5 this season. The front office decided it was time for a change and opted to part ways with Lalonde.
In his place, the Red Wings have brought in veteran coach Todd McLellan, who brings a wealth of experience to the role. McLellan has previously served as head coach for the San Jose Sharks, Edmonton Oilers, and most recently the Los Angeles Kings.
McLellan is known for his strong leadership and ability to develop young talent, qualities that the Red Wings are hoping will help turn the team’s fortunes around. Fans are eager to see what McLellan can bring to the table and are hopeful for a brighter future under his guidance.
Stay tuned for updates as McLellan takes the reins and leads the Red Wings into a new era.
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After a disappointing 13-17-4 start to the 2024-25 season, the Detroit Red Wings are making a coaching change. Detroit has fired head coach Derek Lalonde, the team announced Thursday, and hired Todd McLellan to fill the position.
Lalonde took over the team in the 2022 offseason after Detroit moved on from Jeff Blashill, and the team improved in each of his first two seasons. The Red Wings went from 74 points in Blashill’s final season to 80 in Lalonde’s debut campaign, then made a leap to 91 points in 2023-24 — missing out on the final playoff spot by a tiebreaker.
Red Wings fire Lalonde and Bob Boughner, going with Todd McLellan https://t.co/gbbxwvUJPl
— Max Bultman (@m_bultman) December 26, 2024
But the Red Wings have taken a considerable step back this season, sitting 28th in the league standings as of Thursday morning. The team has struggled for most of the season to find any kind of identity and has particularly regressed offensively, currently ranking in the league’s bottom-five in goals per game (2.56) — and that’s with a power play that ranks 11th. The Red Wings’ five-on-five expected goal creation has been among the league’s worst. And their penalty kill currently ranks as one of the worst in league history.
Ultimately, then, it’s the totality of the Red Wings’ play that has put them in this position. Detroit had lost three straight entering Saturday’s game against the Maple Leafs. Clearly, general manager Steve Yzerman wasn’t willing to wait any longer for the tide to turn.
As the team’s head coach, Lalonde bears his share of responsibility for Detroit’s struggles this season. But in many ways, he’s simply the easiest change to make with so many games left in the season.
Any path to the postseason now looks narrow, but in a weakened Atlantic Division, there is technically time for the Red Wings to be at least more competitive than they have been.
Still, any discussion of the Red Wings’ regression this season has to start with the team’s roster, assembled by Steve Yzerman.
Detroit lost several productive forwards this offseason, as well as two key defensemen in Jake Walman and power play quarterback Shayne Gostisbehere. That weakened the Red Wings’ scoring prowess and only heightened the need to improve their team defense, but few meaningful roster upgrades were made to do so — though young defenseman Simon Edvinsson has been excellent in stepping into a top pair role.
New goaltender Cam Talbot has been a success story in goal, but forward Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Erik Gustafsson (both free-agent signings to replace lost players) have disappointed.
The lack of help in free agency meant any improvement would need to come internally, through coaching and the growth of current players.
But that hasn’t happened, and Lalonde is now paying the price.
(Photo: Michael Reaves / Getty Images)
The Detroit Red Wings have made a coaching change after a disappointing start to the season. The team announced today that they have fired head coach Derek Lalonde after a 13-17-4 start and have hired Todd McLellan as his replacement.
Lalonde, who was in his first season as head coach of the Red Wings, was unable to turn the team’s fortunes around despite high expectations heading into the season. The team has struggled to find consistency and has fallen out of playoff contention in the tough Central Division.
McLellan, a seasoned NHL coach with previous stints with the San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the Red Wings. He will be tasked with getting the team back on track and competing for a playoff spot in the second half of the season.
Red Wings fans will be hoping that McLellan can provide the spark needed to turn the team’s season around and lead them to success in the second half of the season. Stay tuned for updates on how the team responds to their new coach in the coming weeks.
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Detroit Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman today announced that the team has named Todd McLellan the 29th Head Coach in franchise history and signed him to a multi-year contract. Additionally, the Red Wings have hired Trent Yawney as an Assistant Coach.
Head Coach Derek Lalonde and Associate Coach Bob Boughner have been relieved of their coaching duties, effective immediately.
McLellan, 57, rejoins the organization (Assistant Coach, 2005-08) with 16 seasons of NHL head coaching experience, posting a 598-412-134 regular-season record and a 42-46 postseason mark with the Los Angeles Kings (2019-24), Edmonton Oilers (2015-19) and San Jose Sharks (2008-15). His 598 regular-season wins are ranked 24th in NHL history and sixth-most among active coaches behind Paul Maurice (891), Lindy Ruff (876), Peter Laviolette (823), John Tortorella (757) and Peter DeBoer (632). Teams coached by McLellan have reached the 50-win mark three times and the 100-point plateau six times. McLellan’s teams have also advanced to the Stanley Cup Playoffs nine times, including six-consecutive postseason appearances with the Sharks. In recognition of his efforts, McLellan has twice been named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award as the NHL’s Coach of the Year (2008-09, 2016-17) and has coached at two NHL All-Star Games (2009, 2012).
Prior to returning to the Red Wings, McLellan spent parts of five seasons as Head Coach of the Los Angeles Kings from 2019-24. During his tenure with the Kings, McLellan posted a 164-130-44 regular-season record and a 5-8 postseason mark, leading the club to back-to-back Stanley Cup Playoff berths in 2021-22 and 2022-23. In all, McLellan ranks among the Kings’ all-time leaders with 338 games coached (5th), 164 wins (4th) and 372 points (4th). Before coaching the Kings, McLellan worked parts four seasons as bench boss of the Edmonton Oilers, compiling a 123-119-34 record and a 7-6 postseason ledger. McLellan places among Edmonton’s all-time leaders with 266 games coached (4th), 123 wins (4th) and 270 points (4th). In 2016-17, McLellan guided the Oilers to a 47-26-9 record, which marked a 33-point improvement over the previous campaign. During that season, the Oilers recorded their first 100-point campaign since 1986-87 and clinched a postseason berth for the first time since reaching the 2006 Stanley Cup Final.
McLellan made his NHL head coaching debut with the San Jose Sharks, where he remains the franchise’s all-time leader in games coached (540), wins (311), points (688) and postseason games coached (62). In all, McLellan compiled a 311-163-66 regular-season record and a 30-32 postseason mark in seven seasons with the Sharks from 2008-15, leading the club to the Stanley Cup Playoffs in each of his first six seasons behind the bench. During McLellan’s tenure, the Sharks reached the 40-win mark six times, eclipsed the 100-point mark four times, earned three-straight Pacific Division titles (2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11) and captured the first Presidents’ Trophy in franchise history (2008-09). The Sharks also made back-to-back appearances in the Western Conference Final in 2009-10 and 2010-11, in addition to reaching the Western Conference Semifinals in 2012-13.
Prior to joining the Sharks, McLellan spent three seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Red Wings from 2005-08, helping the organization win a Stanley Cup championship in 2008. During McLellan’s tenure, the Red Wings also earned three-consecutive Central Division titles (2005-06, 2006-07, 2007-08), two Presidents’ Trophies (2005-06, 2007-08) and one Clarence S. Campbell Bowl (2007-08). While with the Red Wings, McLellan was tasked with running Detroit’s power play, which finished first in the NHL in 2005-06 (22.1 percent) and third in 2007-08 (20.7 percent).
Before entering the NHL coaching ranks, McLellan worked four seasons as Head Coach of the American Hockey League’s Houston Aeros from 2001-05, showing a 154-129-37 record and leading the franchise to a Calder Cup title in 2003. McLellan led the Aeros to a Central Division title in 2002-03 and coached at the 2003 and 2004 AHL All-Star Games. McLellan spent five seasons coaching the Minnesota Wild’s primary affiliate, having led the International Hockey League’s Cleveland Lumberjacks to a 43-32-7 record in 2000-01.
A native of Melville, Sask., McLellan worked six seasons as Head Coach and General Manager of the Western Hockey League’s Swift Current Broncos from 1994-00, compiling a 250-176-49 regular-season record along with a Central Division title in 1995-96 and a East Division crown in 1999-00. He was named the WHL’s Executive of the Year in 1996-97 and Coach of the Year in 1999-00. McLellan previously served as Head Coach of the Battlefords North Stars of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League in 1992-94, leading the club to a 40-point improvement in his second season with the club. He was inducted into the SJHL Hall of Fame in 2024.
Prior to his coaching career, McLellan played two professional seasons in North America. Selected by the New York Islanders in the fifth round (104th overall) of the NHL Entry Draft, McLellan recorded two points (1-1-2) in five games with the club during the 1987-88 season. He also logged 70 points (25-45-70) and 49 penalty minutes in 107 games with the AHL’s Springfield Indians from 1987-89. McLellan racked up 164 points (66-98-164) and 127 penalty minutes in 178 games with the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades from 1983-87 before turning professional.
On the international stage, McLellan served as Head Coach of Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, where he coached Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin. McLellan also led Team Canada to a gold medal at the 2015 IIHF World Championship, marking the country’s first gold medal at the annual tournament since 2007. McLellan previously won a bronze medal as an Assistant Coach with Team Canada at the 2000 IIHF World Junior Championship.
Yawney, 59, joins the Red Wings after spending five seasons as an Assistant Coach with the Kings from 2019-24. He previously held the same position with the Oilers (2019-20), Anaheim Ducks (2014-18), Sharks (2008-11) and Chicago Blackhawks (1999-00). Additionally, Yawney worked two stints as Head Coach of the AHL’s Norfolk Admirals from 2000-05 and 2012-14, and also served as Associate Head Coach of the AHL’s Syracuse Crunch during the 2011-12 campaign. Yawney made his NHL head coaching debut with the Blackhawks, logging a 33-55-15 record in parts of two seasons with the club from 2005-07. On the international stage, Yawney was an Assistant Coach with Team Canada at the 2011 Spengler Cup. He also served as Head Coach at the 2007 IIHF World Under-18 Championship and worked as an Assistant Coach at the 2006 IIHF World Championship.
A native of Hudson Bay, Sask., Yawney played in 12 NHL seasons as a defenseman prior to his coaching career. Selected by Chicago in the third round (45th overall) of the 1984 NHL Entry Draft, Yawney registered 129 points (27-102-129) and 783 penalty minutes in 593 games with the Blackhawks, Calgary Flames and St. Louis Blues from 1987-99. Yawney represented his country at back-to-back IIHF World Championships in 1991 and 1992, winning a silver medal at the 1991 tournament. He also captained Team Canada at the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Alta.
The Detroit Red Wings have named Todd McLellan as their new head coach! McLellan brings a wealth of experience and success to the team, having previously served as head coach for the San Jose Sharks and Edmonton Oilers. With his proven track record of developing young talent and leading teams to playoff success, Red Wings fans can look forward to a bright future under McLellan’s leadership. Welcome aboard, Coach McLellan! #LGRW
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