The timing, though, couldn't be worse for McLellan and his top assistant, Trent Yawney. Because of the NHL's holiday break, they will be coaching the Red Wings against the Maple Leafs on Friday night without a single practice in charge.

That's one of the ways Todd McLellan described he is getting to know Detroit Red Wings players. He was named their new coach Dec. 26 and, along with familiarizing himself with the team, he's trying to find a place to call home in the metro area so that he can move out of the hotel that's been his base.