Despite missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year, Detroit Red Wings believe that their coach Jeff Blashill deserves more time to turn things around. This is why the team decided to give Blashill a two-year extension and show him a vote of confidence during franchise’s ongoing rebuilding process.
Red Wings currently sit at the 6th place in Atlantic Division with a 32-38-10 record.
According to Detroit’s general manager Ken Holland, Blashill has kept the Red Wings competitive despite all the obstacles he faces.
“Jeff has done a tremendous job developing our young talent as we continue to rebuild our organization,” – said Holland in a statement. “Our young players have made significant strides during his time as head coach and are playing important minutes in key situations. As we continue to build toward the future, we have the utmost confidence that Jeff is the coach best suited to help our prospects become impactful NHL players.”
Jeff Blashill was named Detroit Red Wings head coach in 2015 after Mike Babcock left the organization to join Toronto Maple Leafs. In his first season Blashill managed to get the team to playoffs, where they were eliminated in the First Round having won only one game. The following three years, however, proved to be struggling for the franchise as they decided to turn focus to their younger players and entered a full rebuild.
Blashill, who was also a member of Team USA on four occasions so far, has a head coaching record of 136-143-47.
