The Red Wings have extended their head coach Jeff Blashill. That will take them out of the rumor mill for a coaching change. However, there are still several vacancies out there and Rick Tocchet has secured two interviews.
Red Wings extend Jeff Blashill
Per the team’s press release:
Detroit Red Wings executive vice president and general manager Steve Yzerman today announced that Jeff Blashill has agreed to a contract extension to remain head coach of the Red Wings. Additionally, Yzerman announced that assistant coach Dan Bylsma will pursue other NHL opportunities in 2021-22.
After this season, Blashill now has a record of 172-221-62. He also ranks sixth in Red Wings history for both games coached at 455 and wins with the aforementioned 172. Terms of the deal have yet to be disclosed.
What is real interesting is the news that former head coach, Dan Bylsma is going to throw his name in the hat for some coaching jobs available in the NHL. Currently, the Rangers, Kraken, Blue Jackets, Coyotes, and potentially Sabres have vacancies.
Rick Tocchet to interview for Rangers and Kraken jobs
Elliotte Friedman is reporting that Rick Tocchet will be interviewed by the New York Rangers for the vacant head coaching job. Additionally, Frank Seravalli is noting that the Seattle Kraken will speak with him as well.
Rick Tocchet’s career coaching record is 178-200-60. The 57 year-old former NHL power forward took the reins as head coach of the Coyotes back in 2017. Tocchet amassed a 125-131-34 record with Arizona during his tenure. He is widely considered an up and coming coach who knows how to relate to his players. Many in NHL circles view his record as a feat for getting more with less than any other coach.
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