The Detroit Red Wings have made a significant shake-up, announcing the dismissal of head coach Derek Lalonde and his assistant head coach, Bob Boughner. This decision was overdue after a disappointing start to the season, where the team only had a 13-17-4 record. Lalonde, who had been with the team since the 22′ offseason, had led the Red Wings to moderate improvements in his first two years. However, due to the regression this year, and with no light at the end of the tunnel in sight, General Manager Steve Yzerman will seek a leadership change.

Stepping into the role is Todd McLellan, named the new head coach of the franchise. McLellan, who previously served as an assistant coach for the Red Wings during their 08′ Stanley Cup win, returns with a goal to return Detroit to Hockeytown. After having time with the San Jose Sharks, Edmonton Oilers, and most recently, the Los Angeles Kings.

His hiring is seen as a strategic move to bring discipline and an offensive mindset to a team with no identity. The Red Wings hope McLellan’s experience can help turn their luck around and possibly save the season as the Red Wings are not mathematically eliminated from the playoffs just yet.

Fan reactions on social media have been abuzz with the news, with many showing a mix of joy about a change but also not overjoyed about McLellan being the name to replace him. The overall feel seems to be optimistic, with many Red Wings fans interested to see how McLellan can utilize the team’s mix of veteran and young talent. The conversation has also included the idea that McLellan’s coaching style, known for its offensive approach, could be what the Red Wings need to hold teams off playing so aggressively against the Red Wings.

As the Red Wings move ahead, the main challenge for McLellan will be to instill a sense of purpose in a team that has been underwhelming. His first tasks will include addressing the team’s league-worst penalty kill, with the season still in play. This move may spark a change in our beloved Red Wings or if it does not, maybe the problems lie at a higher level than the coaching staff.

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