Detroit City Wire

Detroit Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman announced the appointment of Todd McLellan as the new Head Coach. McLellan, who previously served as an Assistant Coach with the team from 2005 to 2008, will be stepping into his role as the 29th Head Coach in franchise history under a multi-year contract. Alongside this announcement, Trent Yawney has been hired as an Assistant Coach.

The coaching staff changes include the departure of Head Coach Derek Lalonde and Associate Coach Bob Boughner, who have been relieved of their duties effective immediately.

McLellan brings a wealth of experience with 16 seasons as an NHL head coach. He has a regular-season record of 598-412-134 and a postseason record of 42-46. His previous roles included stints with the Los Angeles Kings, Edmonton Oilers, and San Jose Sharks. Notably, he ranks sixth among active coaches for regular-season wins.

In his recent tenure with the Los Angeles Kings from 2019 to 2024, McLellan achieved a regular-season record of 164-130-44 and led the team to two consecutive Stanley Cup Playoff appearances. His leadership history also includes significant accomplishments with the Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks, where he guided teams to multiple playoff berths and division titles.

Before his NHL coaching career, McLellan was Head Coach of the Houston Aeros in the AHL, leading them to a Calder Cup title in 2003. He also held positions within other leagues including serving as Head Coach and General Manager for Swift Current Broncos in the WHL.

Internationally, McLellan coached Team North America at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey and led Team Canada to a gold medal at the 2015 IIHF World Championship.

Yawney joins from five seasons with the Los Angeles Kings as an Assistant Coach. His coaching background includes various assistant roles in different NHL teams and head coaching experiences in AHL clubs. Prior to coaching, Yawney played twelve NHL seasons as a defenseman.

Yawney's international experience includes serving as an Assistant Coach for Team Canada at different tournaments such as the Spengler Cup and IIHF Championships.