Chicago Blackhawks hire ex-Detroit Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill

Published: Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 6:33 pm

Blackhawks Hope Blashill Can Revive Struggling Franchise

The Chicago Blackhawks are betting on a fresh start, announcing the hiring of Jeff Blashill as their new head coach. General Manager Kyle Davidson made the announcement, expressing excitement about Blashill's experience and his ability to develop young players, a key focus for the rebuilding Blackhawks.

Blashill, 51, brings over 25 years of coaching experience to the table, including a stint as head coach of the Detroit Red Wings from 2015 to 2022. During his time with the Red Wings, he compiled a record of 204-261-72. More recently, Blashill served as an assistant coach for the Tampa Bay Lightning for the past three seasons. He also has experience coaching at the AHL, USHL, and collegiate levels.

The Blackhawks are in dire need of a turnaround. This past season, they finished with the second-worst record in the NHL at 25-46-11. They fired former coach Luke Richardson in December, who had a 57-118-15 record over three seasons. Interim coach Anders Sorensen led the team to a 17-30-9 record in the final stretch of the season. The team's struggles are a stark contrast to their past glory, having won the Stanley Cup three times between 2009 and 2015. They've missed the playoffs seven times in the last eight years.

Davidson highlighted Blashill's ability to blend player development with team success as a key factor in the hiring decision. The Blackhawks are clearly looking to build a competitive team for the future, and they hope Blashill can guide them back to their winning ways.

BNN's Perspective: While Blashill's record with the Red Wings wasn't stellar, his experience and recent time with a successful team like the Lightning could be beneficial. The Blackhawks are in a rebuilding phase, and Blashill's focus on player development aligns well with their current needs. It's a gamble, but a necessary one for a franchise looking to regain its former glory.

Keywords: Chicago Blackhawks, Jeff Blashill, head coach, NHL, Detroit Red Wings, Kyle Davidson, Luke Richardson, Anders Sorensen, Stanley Cup, player development, hockey, coaching, rebuild, Tampa Bay Lightning, Blackhawks news

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