We’ve used this headline format before, when the coach-GM relationship between Mike Babcock and Ken Holland was “sure under the microscope” in Detroit.
These days, it’s the one in San Jose between coach Todd McLellan and GM Doug Wilson that’s getting a good deal of attention.
Last week, for example, the Globe and Mail reported that McLellan and Wilson had a disagreement over Adam Burish. “The coach wanted to play Burish. The GM had other ideas and put him on waivers,” according to the Canadian newspaper.
Wilson emphatically denied the report; however, his relationship with McLellan remains a topic of conversation, just as much as the Sharks’ inconsistent play.
From the San Jose Mercury News:
“I would say our relationship is very strong,” McLellan said of his rapport with Wilson. “Do we always agree? No. But that’s part of having that relationship.”
“I would say exactly the same thing,” Wilson said. “We have healthy disagreements, but our relationship is strong.”
Which, by the way, is exactly what Babcock and Holland have said about their relationship in Detroit. Sometimes they disagree, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have a strong bond.
Regardless of how Wilson and McLellan are getting along, both men are under considerable pressure to deliver results. If the Sharks miss the playoffs, and make no mistake that’s a distinct possibility, there’s very little chance McLellan will be back next season. While Wilson’s job security is less clear, we’ll go ahead and wager he’s on the hot seat as well.
The Sharks, with just four wins in their last nine, host the Kings tonight (on NBCSN).