The San Jose Sharks and head coach Todd McLellan have “mutually agreed” to part ways, the club announced today.
“I want to thank Todd and his staff for their years of service to the San Jose Sharks organization,” said GM Doug Wilson in a release. “Sometimes a change is best for all parties involved but nothing will take away from what Todd and his staff accomplished here over the last seven seasons.”
“San Jose will always hold a special place for me and my family,” said McLellan. “I would like to thank Doug and the Sharks organization for allowing me the opportunity to coach at the National Hockey League level. While we both agree that a change is in the best interest of myself and the team, I’m proud of what we accomplished as an organization.”
The Sharks also announced that assistant coaches Jim Johnson and Jay Woodcroft, as well as video coordinator Brett Heimlich, have been fired.
The moves are not unexpected after the Sharks missed the playoffs for the first time since 2003. McLellan, should he wish to coach next season, could be a candidate for vacancies in Toronto, Philadelphia and Buffalo. He could also be a candidate in places like Detroit and Edmonton, should those clubs require a new coach.
The Sharks enjoyed much success during McLellan’s tenure, but could never advance past the conference finals.
Todd McLellan has permission to speak with other NHL teams immediately. The Sharks just have to be kept in the loop.
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) April 20, 2015