NHL: Detroit Red Wings at Colorado Avalanche Detroit Red Wings head coach Jeff Blashill reacts during the second period against the Colorado Avalanche at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Chicago Blackhawks hire their next head coach

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Andy Jachim | Last updated May 22, 2025 12:16 PM ET

Ever since Luke Richardson was relieved of his duties as the Chicago Blackhawks’ head coach in December, the fanbase has not stopped talking about who would come in the take over the next phase of the rebuild. The young core on the current roster showed plenty of promise at the end of the season and everyone around the organization is hoping that they can take steps forward this fall.

For the longest time, it was known that David Carle was the top candidate on Chicago’s big board. When the young coach decided to return to Denver University, the Blackhawks’ brass turned their attention to guys with NHL experience. After many rumblings over the past few days, they made their decision official on Thursday.

Chicago Blackhawks officially hire Jeff Blashill as their next head coach

General manager Kyle Davidson officially released a statement on the hiring of Blashill and what it means for the future direction of the franchise.

“Jeff is an incredibly smart and talented coach who boasts more than 25 years of coaching experience across developmental leagues, the NHL and the world stage,” Davidson said. “He’s thrived when in a position to develop young players and has shown he’s capable of blending that into overall team success, a vision and philosophy we share for where we are today and where we see our team in the future. We couldn’t be more excited for what’s to come under Jeff’s direction.”

It was also announced that Michael Peca and Anders Sorensen would be joining Blashill’s staff as assistants. Sorensen staying aboard is important to note, as he very well could have gone back to Rockford after this past season. Instead, he has earned his role as a key developer in the young talent on this roster moving forward.

NHL: Carolina Hurricanes at Detroit Red Wings Jan 20, 2018; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Red Wings head coach Jeff Blashill looks on during the second period against the Carolina Hurricanes at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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