With the Detroit Red Wings announcing Wednesday that Steve Yzerman is stepping down as general manager, attention immediately shifted to another important question.
What does this mean for head coach Todd McLellan?
While every new general manager eventually wants to put his own stamp on an organization, the timing of Yzerman’s departure suggests McLellan is likely safe, at least for now.
McLellan Was Yzerman’s Choice
McLellan was the second full-time head coach hired by Yzerman after replacing Derek Lalonde during the 2025-26 season. Jeff Blashill, who coached Detroit before Lalonde, was inherited by Yzerman when he became general manager in 2019.
McLellan immediately made an impact.
Known throughout the NHL as one of the league’s most demanding and respected coaches, the veteran bench boss brought greater structure and accountability to Detroit’s lineup. Under his leadership, the Red Wings climbed near the top of the Eastern Conference standings late in January and appeared poised to snap their lengthy playoff drought.
Unfortunately, the season ended in familiar fashion as Detroit struggled during March and ultimately missed the postseason once again.
Why a Coaching Change Appears Unlikely
Although it is common for new general managers to eventually hire their own head coach, several factors suggest McLellan is unlikely to be on the hot seat.
For one, he has been behind Detroit’s bench for only part of one season. That simply is not enough time to fully evaluate the impact of his coaching philosophy.
There is also the practical side of the equation.
Most established coaching candidates have already been hired around the league, leaving few proven options available this late in the offseason. Making a coaching change now would likely create more uncertainty than stability.
The New GM Will Have Bigger Priorities
Whoever replaces Yzerman will inherit several pressing issues that extend well beyond the coaching staff.
The organization must address the ongoing uncertainty surrounding captain Dylan Larkin, continue shaping the roster after a busy offseason, and determine how close Detroit truly is to becoming a playoff team.
Given those priorities, keeping McLellan in place for at least the start of the 2026-27 season appears to be the most logical path.
That would allow the new hockey operations leader to evaluate both the roster and coaching staff before making any long-term decisions.
For now, Todd McLellan’s job appears secure. But in the NHL, that can change quickly if results don’t follow.
One Response
Todd has been the wings coach for almost 2 seasons.