Detroit Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde is receiving high praise from one of his former players, Edmonton Oilers’ star Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, highlighting the deep respect and admiration between the two. The recognition comes as a testament to Lalonde’s impact on his players, even years after they have parted ways.
Nugent-Hopkins, who played for Lalonde during their time together with the Grand Rapids Griffins in the American Hockey League (AHL), recently shared his positive impressions of the Red Wings’ head coach. According to Nugent-Hopkins, Lalonde’s leadership skills and ability to connect with his players left a lasting impression.
In an interview, Nugent-Hopkins praised Lalonde for his approach to coaching, emphasizing the balance Lalonde maintains between being demanding and supportive. “He’s a great communicator, and he really understands what makes each player tick,” Nugent-Hopkins said. “He’s someone who pushes you, but also has your back, and that goes a long way in building trust. That’s what really makes him stand out.”
Lalonde’s coaching style focuses on player development, individual growth, and fostering a team-first mentality. His time with the Griffins helped mold the foundation of his coaching philosophy, one that emphasizes discipline, consistency, and high expectations. Nugent-Hopkins recalled how Lalonde’s leadership helped the team come together and achieve success during their AHL seasons.
The respect between the two has only grown stronger over the years, especially as Lalonde’s career has progressed. After his tenure in the AHL, Lalonde moved on to become the Red Wings’ head coach in 2022, where he has worked tirelessly to revitalize the team and lead them back to playoff contention. Nugent-Hopkins, currently a central figure for the Oilers, has followed Lalonde’s career from afar and expressed how proud he is of his former coach’s accomplishments.
For Lalonde, the praise from Nugent-Hopkins is a validation of the hard work and dedication he has poured into his coaching career. As the Red Wings continue their pursuit of success, Lalonde’s reputation as a coach who cares deeply about his players’ development and well-being remains evident. With such high praise from former players like Nugent-Hopkins, Lalonde is clearly making a lasting impact on the hockey world, building strong relationships that extend beyond the rink.
