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Controversial Coach Joel Quenneville Linked to NHL Team for his Services

Originally posted on Hockey Patrol | By Chris Gerics | Last updated 10/16/24

Controversy followed Joel Quenneville in his NHL career, but he still has wisdom to offer and could find himself with the Detroit Red Wings if they don't improve.

Though he had his ban lifted in 2024, Joel Quenneville hasn't found any NHL work as of yet, whether it's due to a lack of need or due to the controversy that comes with him but he's still a capable coach. A three-time Stanley Cup winner, Quenneville knows how to make the best of his players and would be able to help any team in a coaching capacity regardless of position whether it be as a head coach, assistant coach or consultant.

He may not be out of work for long though, if the Detroit Red Wings don't start improving as the former Blackhawks and Panthers coach was named as a potential candidate for Detroit if they choose to relieve Derek Lalonde:

Per Larry Brooks of the New York Post:

'Everyone likes head coach Derek Lalonde, but time waits for no man, even an icon such as Yzerman,' Brooks said, stating that Yzerman could have Quenneville 'on speed dial' if the Red Wings don't show progression.

Detroit had a lot of high hopes coming into this season, and the additions of Alex DeBrincat, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Erik Gustafsson haven't brought the early season results that GM Steve Yzerman was expecting. If Detroit were to bring in Quenneville, it would reunite him with Patrick Kane, who Quenneville coached for several years in Chicago.

Joel Quenneville's Rollercoaster Ride From Success To Controversy

For his career, Quenneville has coached for four separate teams including the St. Louis Blues, Colorado Avalanche, Chicago Blackhawks, and Florida Panthers. His record is 969-572-77 for his career, as well as a 121-104 record in the playoffs. A three-time Stanley Cup Champion, all with the Chicago Blackhawks, Quenneville has also won the Jack Adams Trophy in 1999-2000 and is currently 2nd all-time in the NHL for games won, and sits 5th all-time in games coached; a testament to his ability.

However, Quenneville's controversial resignation may have some hesitant to give him another shot. During the Brad Aldrich investigation, it was found that Quenneville had prior knowledge to the events that occurred though he denied the claim and wanted to 'avoid distractions'. After discussing the incident with NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman, Quenneville immediately resigned from his coaching position and was subsequently banned from the league; however this was rescinded in 2024.

It remains to be seen if Detroit will be desperate enough to call upon Quenneville knowing the backlash that may come with his hiring, but if GM Steve Yzerman and company really want to make an impact: desperate times call for desperate measures.

This article first appeared on Hockey Patrol and was syndicated with permission.

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