The turnaround has been staggering. The Red Wings are 13-4-1 since McLellan replaced Derek Lalonde on Dec. 26. Their 27 points during that span is tied for first in the NHL with Dallas (13-4-1) and Washington (11-2-5).

In 16 games since McLellan took over, the Red Wings are 11-4-1, riding a three-game win streak as they prepare to head to western Canada on Wednesday. It’s not unusual to see a midseason coaching change bring better results in the NHL, but now more than 30 days in, the Red Wings’ surge has lasted longer than a simple adrenaline rush.

The Detroit Red Wings believe in themselves again, says new head coach Todd McLellan. That has made all the difference in the world.