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New Coach, New Red Wings?

Writer's picture: Theresa BalocatingTheresa Balocating

Courtesy of The Associated Press
Courtesy of The Associated Press

The Detroit Red Wings have faced a challenging start to the season, struggling to find their footing in a division dominated by stronger teams at the top of the standings. In a bold move, the team parted ways with head coach Derek Lalonde after three seasons on Thursday, December 26, announcing Todd McLellan as the team’s new coach. Could this coaching change be the spark the Red Wings need to turn the rest of their season around?


Before the coaching switch, the Red Wings were sitting second last in the Atlantic division, just ahead of the Buffalo Sabres – a far cry from the promise they showed last year.


After a hopeful run last season, the Red Wings' push to a playoff spot looked promising after General Manager Steve Yzerman put together a team with serious potential. This season’s roster holds similarities, however, their performance has lacked the energy and spark needed to rise above the competition.


McLellan and the Wings have some history together, and it’s safe to say their connection runs deep. As an assistant coach from 2005-2008, he played a contributing role in the success of the team’s 2008 Stanley Cup win. Currently, he ranks sixth among active coaches in career wins, bringing experience and a familiar connection to Detroit’s hockey legacy.


Courtesy of Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Courtesy of Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Red Wings made further changes to their coaching staff by parting ways with associate coach Bob Boughner and appointing Trent Yawney as an assistant coach.


"It's going to take Trent and I, five, six or seven games to really figure out individuals, and it will take them that long to figure us out,” McLellan said on Friday, December 27. “Everyone is going to play while we figure that out and then we can take a look and see where we are."


The return of McLellan to the Red Wings franchise has shown a glimmer of hope. Although his debut was overshadowed by a 5-2 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs on December 27 – just one day after McLellan signed the multiyear contract – the team has seemingly rebounded with a renewed sense of purpose, winning four consecutive games and showcasing a noticeable surge in energy and determination.


Courtesy of NHL
Courtesy of NHL

How have the players been adjusting to the recent coaching change? Quite well, it seems. Alex DeBrincat, the team’s current leading goal-scorer has been on fire the past four games after the initial loss, tallying four goals and three assists. Following closely behind, Lucas Raymond and Dylan Larkin have also been making their mark. Raymond has contributed two goals and five assists, while Larkin has added four goals and two assists in the same stretch. This trio’s standout performances highlight a smooth transition under the new leadership and a promising offensive rhythm.


In a statement win against the Central Division-leading, Winnipeg Jets on January 4, the Wings showcased a whole new energy that seemed to be missing in recent weeks. Patrick Kane and Moritz Seider played with great effort combining for five assists. Meanwhile, the Wings’ goal scorers - Raymond, Kane, and Larkin - contributed an impressive six points collectively.


The Red Wings' victory against the Ottawa Senators was a nail-biter showdown on January 7 featuring, fast-paced action from both teams. In overtime, seasoned veteran Kane delivered a clutch performance, scoring the game-winning goal to secure the win for Detroit on Tuesday night at home in the Motor City. 


With the Red Wings capitalizing on home-ice advantage in recent games and climbing a spot in the standings to a 20-18-4 record, the stage is set for them to build on their newfound energy and momentum. As the players continue to adapt to McLellan’s vision, the Red Wings have a chance to redefine their season and recapture the grit and determination that has long been a hallmark of Detroit hockey.


Edited by Madeleine Meneguzzi





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