Articles / Red Wings hire former NHLer Michael Leighton as goaltending coach

Red Wings hire former NHLer Michael Leighton as goaltending coach

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Daily Faceoff
Jul 7, 2025 3:35 PM

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The Detroit Red Wings have announced the hiring of Michael Leighton as their new goaltending coach, a significant addition to their coaching staff. Leighton, who enjoyed a successful career as an NHL goaltender, is best known for his time with the Philadelphia Flyers and had notable stints with teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and the Nashville Predators. His experience is expected to be invaluable in developing the Red Wings' goaltending prospects.

In his playing days, Leighton showcased his skills during the 2010 Stanley Cup playoffs, where he led the Flyers to the finals, ultimately falling short against the Chicago Blackhawks. His journey through the league has given him a unique perspective that he will now impart to the next generation of goalies in the Red Wings organization.

The Red Wings have been focusing on rebuilding their roster, and with players like Alex Nedeljkovic and veteran Thomas Greiss in the mix, Leighton's expertise could be crucial in refining their skills and bolstering the team's overall performance. Fans are eager to see how this hiring will impact the team's goaltending situation and whether it will bring sustained success to Detroit.

Leighton's appointment is part of a broader trend in the NHL where teams are prioritizing specialized coaching roles to maximize player development. With Leighton at the helm, Red Wings fans have reason to be optimistic about the future of their goaltending core.