Earlier this week the Steve Yzerman and the Detroit Red Wings made the sudden decision to fire Derek Lalonde and replace him with Todd McLellan.
With McLellan taking over he addressed the media the other day and had a clear message on his first day for his new players.
McLellan made it clear to the media that he wants his players to get out of their own heads and go out and play a simple game and get back to playing and enjoying hockey the way they know how.
This message was refreshing to many fans and media who have followed the Detroit Red Wings under the former regime.
The Red Wings often seemed to be overthinking the game which would lead to frustration and overall poor performance from the team.
Today Red Wings superstar forward Patrick Kane spoke about the coaching change and Lalonde's message of keeping things simple.
During a new post-game press conference Kane spoke to the media and was asked about McLellan's comments regarding the Red Wings playing a more simple game.
Kane seemed excited about the fresh start and believes McLellan is exactly what the Red Wings need right now.
Kane in particular is a player who thrives on trying things and taking risks to create offensive chances.
If McLellan is in fact trying to allow players to play through their mistakes instead of benching or scolding them then players like Kane will flourish.
Kane is excited to see what the Red Wings will look like when they rely more on their instincts and get back to simple hockey which it sounds like has been a big struggle for the team this season.
The Red Wings find themselves near the bottom of the Eastern Conference and need to turn things around immediately if they want a chance at the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
All eyes will be on Todd McLellan to see if his plan will be the secret ingredient that the Red Wings have been missing this season.
POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 30 | 153 ANSWERS Red Wings star Patrick Kane Speaks Out for the First Time Since Being Challenged by Head Coach Todd McLellan Will the Detroit Red Wings end up making the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season after changing head coaches? | ||
Yes | 35 | 22.9 % |
No | 118 | 77.1 % |
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