As the Detroit Red Wings vie for a playoff berth with just seven games remaining in the regular season, their recent struggles have prompted speculation about the effectiveness of Derek Lalonde’s coaching. Some fans are urging general manager Steve Yzerman to contemplate replacing Lalonde, who is in his second year as head coach.
A recent report by Bobb Duff of DetroitHockeyNow suggests that Yzerman might indeed be considering a coaching change, depending on the team’s performance for the rest of the season. The report mentions a specific candidate who could be at the top of Yzerman’s list. So, who might catch his interest as the potential new head coach?
The former coach of the St. Louis Blues is the leading contender mentioned, which aligns with the Red Wings’ aspirations of advancing to the playoffs and contending for the Stanley Cup. Despite Craig Berube’s departure from the Blues this season following a somewhat tumultuous period, including an inconsistent start to the year, he boasts a track record of success, having won the Stanley Cup in 2019. Berube’s experience as both a coach and a former NHL player could appeal to Yzerman if he decides to replace Lalonde.
Another intriguing but less likely option is Sergei Fedorov, whose coaching tenure with CSKA Moscow garnered significant acclaim, including two Gagarin Cups and back-to-back Coach of the Year awards. Despite his successful coaching stint, Fedorov’s recent departure from CSKA Moscow might open the door for a potential return to the Red Wings, where he spent the majority of his NHL career. Like Berube, Fedorov’s background as a player and his innovative coaching approach could make him an attractive candidate.
Jay Leach, currently an assistant with the Seattle Kraken, is also mentioned as a promising coaching prospect. Although he lacks NHL head coaching experience, Leach has made a name for himself at various levels, particularly in developing defensemen such as Charlie McAvoy and Jeremy Lauzon. Given the Red Wings’ defensive struggles, Leach’s defensive-minded coaching style could be beneficial, especially considering the team’s defensive prospects on the brink of NHL readiness.
While Yzerman has yet to make a definitive decision regarding Lalonde’s future, the remaining games of the regular season could be pivotal for both Lalonde and the organization’s playoff aspirations. As speculation continues, more coaching candidates may emerge as the season concludes and the offseason approaches.