Red Wings Rumors: Yzerman To Make Coaching Change; 1 Name "At The Top Of Wishlist"

As the Detroit Red Wings navigate a challenging season marked by inconsistency and a potential playoff miss, General Manager Steve Yzerman is reportedly eyeing a coaching overhaul for the upcoming offseason, according to Bob Duff and Lyle Richardson.

The Red Wings are currently tied with the Washington Capitals for the second Wild Card spot, however, Detroit has played two more games (75) than the Capitals (73) with just a handful of games left.

With the team's postseason hopes hanging by a thread, Yzerman nonetheless appears poised to make decisive moves this offseason to revitalize the franchise. At the forefront of Yzerman's plans is the potential replacement of current head coach Derek Lalonde, with former St. Louis Blues coach Craig Berube prominently positioned as the leading candidate on Yzerman's wishlist.

The possibility of a coaching change is something that is being considered by @DetroitRedWings GM Steve Yzerman. If Yzerman takes that route, the man at the top of the list of candidates on Yzerman’s list is former St. Louis Blues coach Craig Berube.

— @TheNHLPundit (@thenhlpundit) April 1, 2024

Despite Lalonde's tenure, recent struggles and a string of lackluster performances have prompted Yzerman to reassess the coaching situation.

The Red Wings' inability to secure a playoff spot in the last seven years has intensified the need for change, with Berube's championship pedigree and proven track record offering an enticing option.

With Yzerman known for his calculated decision-making and a desire to steer the team back to contention, the potential recruitment of Berube signifies a pivotal moment in Detroit's quest for a resurgence in the NHL.

Berube's successful stint with the St. Louis Blues, culminating in a Stanley Cup victory in 2019, aligns with Yzerman's vision for a revamped coaching staff capable of guiding the Red Wings to greater success.

It will be interesting to see if these plans change should the Red Wings end up clinching a playoff berth. Photo Credit: James Guillory-USA TODAY Sports