Chicago Blackhawks hire Lightning's Jeff Blashill as new head coach

Published: Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 12:00 am

Blackhawks Tap Jeff Blashill as New Head Coach, Aiming for Rebuild

The Chicago Blackhawks are turning a new page, announcing the hiring of Jeff Blashill as their 42nd head coach. The move comes months after the team fired Luke Richardson, who had been at the helm since the start of the 2022-23 season. Blashill, a 51-year-old Detroit native, joins the Blackhawks after spending the last three seasons as an assistant coach with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Blackhawks General Manager Kyle Davidson expressed excitement about Blashill's arrival, highlighting his experience in developing young players and his ability to blend that with team success. Davidson emphasized that Blashill's vision aligns with the team's current rebuilding process and future goals.

Blashill's coaching resume includes a seven-season stint as head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, where he compiled a record of 204-261-72. During his time with the Lightning, he contributed to a strong record of 138-86-22, with the team qualifying for the Stanley Cup Playoffs in each of his three seasons.

Richardson's tenure with the Blackhawks saw a record of 57-118-15. Davidson cited a lack of expected results and a need for a higher level of execution as the reasons for the coaching change. Anders Sorensen, head coach of the Rockford IceHogs, served as the interim head coach following Richardson's departure.

BNN's Perspective: The Blackhawks are clearly signaling a commitment to a long-term rebuild. While Blashill's record with the Red Wings was mixed, his experience with the Lightning and his proven ability to develop young talent make him a potentially good fit for the Blackhawks' current trajectory. It's a gamble, but one that aligns with the team's stated goals.

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

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