Todd McLellan, the San Jose Sharks’ all-time leader in games coached and wins, may become a free agent in the off-season according to Sportsnet’s Damien Cox.
“If Doug Wilson were to be fired as general manager Todd McLellan has an option in his contract to become a free agent and he would be available to other teams in the NHL without compensation,” said Cox on Hockey Night in Canada Saturday.
McLellan has 310-160-66 record all-time with the Sharks, and hasn’t missed the playoffs in his seven seasons on the job (although this year it seems like his six-year streak will be broken). He’s also just 30-32 in the post-season.
The 47-year-old, who signed a contract extension two years ago, has one year left on the deal after this season.
Although it’s an unusual position for a head coach to be in, it’s not completely unheard of. Last December, Buffalo Bills head coach Doug Marrone used an opt-out clause in his contract at the end of the season.
However, for Marrone the move didn’t exactly work out. Marrone took a step back after he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as assistant head coach and offensive line coach.
Although there’s still a domino to fall for McLellan to even become a free agent, it will certainly be interesting to see which route he takes if given the opportunity to pursue greener pastures.
