As the Grand Rapids Press’s Peter J. Wallner notes, Grand Rapids Griffins coach Todd Nelson may or may not be back with the Griffins next season.
Nelson still aspires to coach in the NHL, and after Monday’s playoff-ending loss to Manitoba, Nelson and his players wondered aloud what the future holds:
“I’m not thinking too far ahead right now,” he said after the Griffins lost Game 5 to the Manitoba Moose, 5-1. “I have to process what just happened. We have exit interviews with players and see where we’re at. I’m sure I’ll get feedback from management to see where myself and coaching staff is at. Once that’s done, we’ll see what happens.
“But, obviously, that’s a goal of mine to move on. But if it doesn’t happen, this is a great place to work. Fantastic people. Grand Rapids organization is fantastic to work with. The Wings are fantastic to work with. Like I said, I’m just going to try and process this.”
Nelson and his players will meet with the Red Wings’ brass for exit meetings on Wednesday, and Nelson’s players heartily endorsed their coach:
“One of my favorite coaches in my life to play for,” said Ben Street. “… I hope he gets a chance because I don’t think there’s a whole lot left for him to prove at this level. The whole staff is excellent.”
“He lets us play,” said second-year defenseman Joe Hicketts. “We play a very aggressive system, which is up my alley. It’s a credit to him. We’re one of the only teams in the American League that play that aggressive style hockey.”
