Joe Veleno is thriving after Detroit Red Wings fire Derek Lalonde
Detroit Red Wings forward Joe Veleno has thrived since the team made the coaching change from Derek Lalonde to Todd McLellan.
The Detroit Red Wings are red-hot, having won 5 consecutive games under new head coach Todd McLellan; they beat the divisional foe Ottawa Senators at Little Caesars Arena after Patrick Kane scored in overtime.
After having been tied with the Buffalo Sabres for last place in the Eastern Conference at Christmas, GM Steve Yzerman parted ways with coach Derek Lalonde (and assistant Bob Boughner) while hiring McLellan and assistant Trent Yawney.
And the benefits have already been reaped - not only in their last several games but also in the performance of the players.
Joe Veleno, who had struggled to produce under Lalonde, has experienced a rejuvenation since the coaching change was made. McLellan placed Veleno on the top line with Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond and hasn't looked out of place.
He tied last night's game in the 3rd period, banging home a rebound past goaltender Anton Forsberg:
Veleno noted that while he doesn't score often, it's still great to help the team and that he plans on utilizing his speed and forechecking capabilities to continue his newfound boost.
"Continue what I've been doing; using my speed, forechecking, having good sticks on the forecheck, protect the puck down low, and retrieve pucks for those guys. They like to make plays, and they're going find each other. I just try to be at the right spot, go to the net, use my speed, and try to complement those guys.
Last week, McLellan said that Veleno came off as an "honest" player who can provide balance to the lineup.
It's of great benefit for the Red Wings to have Veleno playing at a higher level, and he's contributed to their recent success in the 5-game winning streak.
