from Bob Wojnowski of the Detroit News,

By the end, Jeff Blashill had no chance. And Steve Yzerman had no choice.

Not much more analysis required, frankly. The Red Wings regressed in too many areas, and Blashill had been here too long to think anything would change. So Yzerman made the obvious move Saturday, dismissing Blashill after seven seasons as coach, and it should signal a new mood.

It’s time for Yzerman to show a little impatience in this rebuild.

The focus shifts to the GM, who still must dramatically upgrade the roster, and now will hire his first coach in his third season here. Islanders assistant Lane Lambert, who has longtime ties to Yzerman, will be considered a top candidate. He played with Yzerman his rookie season in Detroit and has worked four years under the Islanders’ respected Barry Trotz. Several veteran coaches are available — Paul Maurice, Dave Tippett, Rick Tocchet — and assistant Alex Tanguay was retained from the Wings' current staff. There also are plenty of candidates in the minor leagues and overseas....

When a rebuild hits the disappointment stage, it’s a sign that expectations have risen, and a signal for change. This was supposed to be the intermediary season, when the Wings blended promising youth with savvy veterans. But Yzerman kept churning the roster looking for unpolished pieces, and that certainly contributed to the second-half collapse.

Blashill guided the Wings through the muddiest terrain, and this step seemed an inevitable part of the plan. Yzerman would figure out what he has, what he can work with, what he needs to upgrade. Blashill had his shot, like many players shuttled in and out of town, and now Yzerman must ratchet it from here.

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