Happy Birthday to Detroit Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde

Born in Brasher Falls, New York, Derek Lalonde's coaching journey began in 1995 as an assistant at North Adams State College in the NCAA Division III circuit. After seven years in Division III, he transitioned to Division I, joining Ferris State University in Michigan.

During his four-year tenure, he coached Hobey Baker Award winner Chris Kunitz. Derek Lalonde then spent five years with the University of Denver before moving to head coaching in the USHL with the Green Bay Gamblers in 2011, where he led his team to a Clark Cup championship.

Derek Lalonde's professional coaching career included successful stints in ECHL Toledo and AHL Iowa, eventually leading to his first NHL role as an assistant coach under Jon Cooper with the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Derek Lalonde contributed to two Stanley Cup championships during his four years with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Shortly before turning 50, he was named head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, where he has compiled a 76-69-19 record over two seasons. Now entering his third season in Detroit, Derek Lalonde's journey reflects a steady climb through the coaching ranks, marked by success at every level.

Derek Lalonde shares his August 18 birthday with NHL alumni Geoff Courtnall, Peter Worrell, and former Detroit Red Wing Forbes Kennedy.

Source: Yahoo Sports
Red Wings Coach Derek Lalonde Celebrates Birthday