While there are many candidates to step in, the Detroit Red Wings should consider a new head coach in Jim Montgomery as a leading candidate. Here’s why.
The current season has not begun as the Detroit Red Wings had hoped. After a strong finish to last season, expectations were high in Hockeytown. The team rallied in the final games, achieving impressive victories, including consecutive comeback wins against the Montreal Canadiens, both at home and in Montreal.
Despite this exciting finish, the Red Wings fell short of the playoffs, tying the Washington Capitals in points but losing out due to fewer regulation wins. Realistically, even had they made it, they likely would have struggled against the New York Rangers in the first round. Still, I believe they could have won at least one home game and made the series more competitive than the Rangers’ sweep of the Capitals.
As the offseason approached, there was optimism about adding star players like Jonathan Marchessault or Steven Stamkos to the roster. Unfortunately, both opted for Nashville, while the Red Wings let go of several key players like Shayne Gostisbehere and Jake Walman without adequately replacing them. Consequently, the team failed to improve its lineup during the offseason, and I didn’t feel confident about this season.
It’s clear that the Red Wings are not performing to expectations so far. They seem a shadow of the team that ended last season strongly. While I initially didn’t believe a coaching change was necessary, I noticed that many players were not giving their best effort, with only two defensemen really stepping up. Someone pointed out that this is precisely why a coaching change may be needed, and I’ve come to agree. It’s the coach’s responsibility to motivate the players, and that crucial aspect seems to be lacking this season.
The Detroit Red Wings should consider Jim Montgomery for a coaching change
Recently, Jim Montgomery was dismissed from his position as head coach of the Boston Bruins following a sluggish start to the season. He took over the Bruins’ coaching role after Bruce Cassidy was let go at the end of the 2021-22 season. In his inaugural year, Montgomery led the team to a record-breaking season, achieving 65 wins and 135 points—an NHL record. Despite this success, the Bruins faced a disappointing first-round exit against the Florida Panthers. It’s worth noting that Presidents’ Trophy-winning teams rarely clinch the Stanley Cup.
Last season, Montgomery guided the Bruins back to the playoffs, where they advanced past the first round. However, they fell short again, underwhelming expectations despite being one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Given Montgomery’s impressive record during his two full seasons with Boston, it’s tough to criticize his performance.
Prior to his time with the Bruins, Montgomery had a solid coaching tenure in Dallas, leading the team to the playoffs in his first year and reaching the second round. However, he was let go after 32 games in his second season due to unprofessional conduct involving alcohol, according to the Dallas Morning News. Following this incident, he entered rehab and has made significant strides since.
I believe the Detroit Red Wings could benefit from new leadership, and Montgomery has a track record of success. While he has slightly less head coaching experience than Derrick Lalonde, his achievements outweigh Lalonde’s during their respective tenures. If the Red Wings continue on their current trajectory, they risk falling out of playoff contention.
A new head coach could invigorate the team and enhance their motivation. Montgomery could also implement improved systems, as the defense clearly needs strengthening. It will be interesting to see what Steve Yzerman and the leadership team decide to do next.
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