Red Wings Rumors: Could Detroit Look To Bring In Joel Quenneville?

Larry Brooks of the New York Post has ignited speculation that the Detroit Red Wings could turn to Joel Quenneville if the team struggles early in the 2024-25 season. 

With the Red Wings under pressure to end their eight-year playoff drought and general manager Steve Yzerman entering his fifth season at the helm, Brooks suggests that Yzerman may need to consider bold changes if current head coach Derek Lalonde fails to deliver results. 

“Everyone likes head coach Derek Lalonde, but time waits for no man, even an icon such as Yzerman,” Brooks wrote, hinting that the Hall of Fame GM could have Quenneville “on speed dial” if Detroit doesn’t show progress soon. 

The Red Wings' season-opening 6-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins has already raised questions about whether they can meet heightened expectations.

"They got a veteran team as well as a top-end talented group. When the big guys & Matthews are going, they're a tough team to beat."

- Joel Quenneville on the #LeafsForever @thegoldenmuzzy | @Jay_D_Rosehill

Presented by @CharmDiamonds pic.twitter.com/9rSxcTzt5u

— TheLeafsNation (@TLNdc) October 15, 2024

Quenneville, a three-time Stanley Cup champion with the Chicago Blackhawks, was banned from the NHL in 2021 for his involvement in the team’s mishandling of Kyle Beach’s sexual assault allegations. 

However, the ban was lifted by NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman in July 2024, paving the way for his return to coaching. While hiring Quenneville would undoubtedly be controversial, Brooks pointed out that the Edmonton Oilers recently hired Stan Bowman—another key figure from the Blackhawks scandal—potentially easing some of the backlash. 

Still, Brooks acknowledged that adding Quenneville could "alienate a portion of the fan base and cast a shadow over the organization." For Yzerman, a GM known for his emphasis on character, the move could carry some reputational risks.

Statement from NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman on the resignation of Joel Quenneville. pic.twitter.com/1KjdI2SKOL

— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) October 29, 2021

With playoff contention crucial, Brooks stressed the urgency surrounding Detroit's performance this season, writing, “It’s playoffs or bust for the Red Wings.” 

The potential hiring of Quenneville, while boosting the team’s playoff hopes, could also test the patience and values of the fan base. 

As Brooks put it, “It would behoove the Red Wings to get on track early,” because a slow start could force Yzerman to make difficult moves to salvage the season.

Photo Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images