Detroit Red Wings Executive Vice President and General Manager Steve Yzerman announced the hiring of Todd McLellan as the 29th head coach in franchise history today. McLellan, 61, will lead the team alongside assistant coach Ryan Yawney, 59. A veteran coach with extensive experience at various levels, McLellan brings a wealth of knowledge to the Red Wings.
McLellan spent five seasons as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings, working under head coach John Stevens during his tenure from 2019-2024. Previously, he held similar positions with the Edmonton Oilers and Anaheim Ducks, among other teams. The veteran coach has also led American Hockey League teams to success, including a Calder Cup title in 2003.
Born in Melville, Saskatchewan, McLellan began his coaching career in the Western Hockey League and later worked as an executive and general manager for several junior hockey teams before entering the NHL ranks. A native of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, McLellan played two seasons professionally with the New York Islanders and Springfield Indians, recording a combined 164 points.
Yawney joins the Red Wings after spending five seasons as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings. He previously held similar positions with the Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, and Chicago Blackhawks, among other teams. A veteran of 12 NHL seasons as a defenseman, Yawney worked under several coaches in his playing career before transitioning to coaching.
The Red Wings’ new management duo is expected to bring stability and continuity to the team’s leadership structure. With McLellan at the helm, the Red Wings will aim to build on their recent playoff appearances and make a deep run into the postseason.
Source: https://www.nhl.com/redwings/news/red-wings-name-todd-mclellan-head-coach