8 Reasons The Detroit Red Wings Season Will Be Great
By Nate Francis
Jun 9, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill throws out the ceremonial first pitch before the game between the Detroit Tigers and the Chicago Cubs at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
A new voice in Hockeytown
He resurrected Western Michigan. He won a Calder Cup in Grand Rapids. Now he’s in Detroit looking to take the next step in his career and add a Stanley Cup. The timing couldn’t be more perfect.
As the young Red Wings continue to rise and some of the older Wings try to win again in the twilight of their career, Blashill is saddled with having to carry on the daunting task of continuing the longest playoff streak in all of sports. Lest we forget that Blashill coached with Babcock as an assistant in 2011-2012. But it’s all about the optimism he brings. Players sing his praises. GM Ken Holland loves the fact that he’s won at every level. And his development of young talent speaks for itself at both the college and professional level.
Look, Mike Babcock is respected widely throughout the league. On October 9th, he should be given a standing ovation by every Red Wings fan in attendance. But it was clear that a change was necessary for both sides. Blashill is just the change needed.
Next: #3: Tomas Jurco can only get better