Rumors swirl as Joel Quenneville, three-time Stanley Cup champion, is linked to coaching jobs with the Red Wings and Rangers (Photo by Joel Auerbach/Getty Images)
As the NHL season reaches its quarter-mark, speculation around coaching changes has intensified, particularly involving Joel Quenneville, the second-winningest coach in league history and a three-time Stanley Cup champion.
After more than two years away from the game, Quenneville’s potential return has become a topic of heated discussion, with sources linking him to two storied Original 6 franchises: the Detroit Red Wings and the New York Rangers.
Detroit Red Wings: A Coaching Change on the Horizon?
The Detroit Red Wings, under general manager Steve Yzerman, have struggled to meet expectations this season, sitting at 10-11-2 and 11th in the Eastern Conference. The storied franchise is at risk of missing the playoffs for a ninth consecutive season—a near-unthinkable drought for an Original 6 team.
According to an NHL insider, such prolonged mediocrity may force Yzerman to make a bold move.
“That fan base and the league can’t have an Original 6 team out of the playoffs for nine straight seasons,” the source told RG. “Yzerman will have to do something soon to save this season.”
While roster moves are limited by the salary cap, coaching changes remain a viable—and often immediate—solution. Current Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde has faced mounting criticism, and Joel Quenneville is reportedly a top candidate for a potential replacement. A source revealed:
“That’s the obvious move, and with a guy like Quenneville itching to get back behind a bench, that could be the jolt the team needs.”
Detroit would also provide a fitting setting for Quenneville’s comeback. A native of Windsor, Ontario, just across the river from Detroit, Quenneville’s ties to the area add an extra layer of intrigue.
Furthermore, his previous work with Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat, both former Chicago Blackhawks now playing for the Red Wings, could bring cohesion and experience to the roster.
Yet, some believe the team’s issues extend beyond coaching.
“It may not be enough with this roster,” a source cautioned, suggesting that structural changes, not a coaching change, could be necessary to turn Detroit into a playoff contender.
New York Rangers: Quenneville as a Potential Savior?
Meanwhile, across the league, the New York Rangers are also rumored to be eyeing Quenneville as they grapple with their longest losing streak in years. The Rangers, currently mired in a five-game skid, have struggled to find consistency under head coach Peter Laviolette.
Following a 3-1 loss to the Philadelphia Flyers, questions about Laviolette’s future have intensified, particularly with a crucial game against the Montreal Canadiens looming.
“Laviolette doesn’t have long there,” a trusted NHL source told RG. “I’m hearing Quenneville could be the guy there if that’s the route [GM Chris Drury] goes.”
Drury has already signaled his willingness to make bold moves, having put key players like captain Jacob Trouba and veteran winger Chris Kreider on notice through trade market discussions. But if trades fail to deliver immediate results, a coaching change could be the next logical step to shake up the roster.
Quenneville’s reputation precedes him as a proven winner and motivator, which is why the Rangers have targeted him as a potential replacement for Laviolette.
“Think of the respect he’d bring into that dressing room,” a source said. “A three-time Cup champ and one who is hungry to coach again.”
A Decision Looms
Both the Red Wings and the Rangers are at crossroads, with underwhelming starts threatening to derail their seasons. Both Yzerman and Drury are under serious scrutiny at this junction, as both teams have failed to show tangible progress from last season.
And, with both teams close to the cap, a coaching change would be the easiest move for either team.
For Detroit, Quenneville could symbolize a fresh start and a connection to the franchise’s winning past. In New York, he might provide the veteran leadership necessary to supercharge a team with championship aspirations.
As the NHL season progresses, all eyes will be on these two Original 6 teams to see if they make the bold move to bring Joel Quenneville back behind the bench.
Whether in Detroit, New York, or elsewhere, it’s clear that Quenneville remains one of the most sought-after coaching minds in hockey—a testament to his enduring impact on the game.
Marco D'Amico is a beat reporter covering the Montreal Canadiens and the NHL Draft, while also being a recurring guest on TSN690 and BPM Sports. His work primarily on NHL CBA breakdowns and prospect analysis, all while covering the Montreal Canadiens on a day-to-day basis.
