McLellan and his right-hand man, former Kings and Ducks assistant Trent Yawney, have put their imprint on the winged wheel in short order. “Our structure in all three zones (has improved), I feel like we’re just supporting the puck better,” Talbot told The Detroit News.

Johansson has averaged 17:10 and posted an even plus-minus rating in 10 games under McLellan and assistant Trent Yawney, who coaches the defense. Prior to that, he averaged 13:02 and posted a minus-6 rating in 17 games while being shuffled in and out of the lineup.

But McLellan and his assistant Trent Yawney have given this team a pulse. The mood around the team is upbeat and confident. A push toward the playoffs is still very much on the ra