The Grand Rapids Griffins officially announced Todd Nelson as the organization’s head coach at a Friday morning press conference at Van Andel Arena. After the Detroit Red Wings hired Jeff Blashill to run the parent team, the Griffins wasted little time targeting Nelson. Nelson was the interim coach of the Edmonton Oilers this past season.
It wasn’t the only announcement the Griffins made. Senior Vice President Tim Gortsema promotion to President preceded the official announcement of Nelson’s hiring.
Detroit Red Wings Assistant General Manager Ryan Martin introduced Nelson to the assembled media. Martin spoke about what the Red Wings were looking for after hiring Blashill, and all signs kept pointing to Nelson for a singular reason.