# Montreal Canadiens coaching staff changes

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/montreal-canadiens-coaching-staff-changes
> Updated: 2026-09-22T00:00:00.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

Derek Lalonde joined the Montreal Canadiens coaching staff to support head coach Martin St-Louis. Initially, Lalonde addressed criticisms regarding St-Louis’s reputation as a ‘players’ coach,’ arguing that while the relationship is partnership-based, the head coach maintains accountability and control.

Following his appointment, it was specified that Lalonde would focus on defensive specialties, specifically overseeing the penalty kill. This move aims to improve the team’s defensive efficiency after a season where they ranked 18th in the NHL in penalty-killing. Veteran player Phillip Danault described Lalonde’s arrival as a ‘game-changer’ for the unit.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-22: Montreal Canadiens hire Derek Lalonde to lead penalty kill

Derek Lalonde has joined the Montreal Canadiens' coaching staff to specialize in the penalty kill, aiming to improve the team's defensive efficiency following a bottom-tier NHL ranking last season.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/montreal-canadiens-hire-derek-lalonde-to-lead-penalty-kill

### 2026-09-10: Derek Lalonde defends Martin St-Louis’s coaching style

New Montreal Canadiens associate coach Derek Lalonde defended Martin St-Louis’s coaching style, stating that being a ‘players’ coach’ does not mean a lack of accountability or authority.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/derek-lalonde-defends-martin-st-louiss-coaching-style

---
Cite as: Montreal Canadiens coaching staff changes. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/montreal-canadiens-coaching-staff-changes