Shanghai Dragons coach on scandal, Ovechkin, and season

The first press conference of the new head coach of the Shanghai Dragons, Mitch Love, was held in an unconventional setting — among bookshelves at the St. Petersburg House of Books. At the meeting with journalists, Love and the club«s general manager Sergei Belykh discussed a wide range of topics, from the reasons for the appointment to domestic violence allegations and chances to save the season.

«Experience vs. Prospects» — and what really changed

When asked about the change in strategy after Gérard Gallant«s departure, Sergei Belykh responded that it»s not about comparing coaches, but about timing. «It»s not really a question about Gallant or Mitch, but a question of deadlines,« the general manager stated. He explained that under Gallant, the team was assembled hastily, and there was no time for systematic work.

«Now it will indeed be a more systematic, logical process of building the team,» Belykh promised. He highlighted Love«s experience in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he was twice named coach of the year. »Love was twice recognized as the AHL«s best coach — this is a league focused primarily on upbringing and development, and this experience is very valuable for us,» the general manager emphasized.

Belykh also reported that the club has already begun forming the roster for the next season.

The unavoidable question — domestic violence

Mitch Love was asked about the domestic violence allegations that interrupted his NHL career. The coach responded briefly: «My focus now is the Shanghai Dragons.» He added that the past months have been difficult, and what mattered most to him was his family. «Now I»m glad to be here, with the team, and focused on work,« Love said.

Sergei Belykh intervened to clarify the club«s position. »We rely on facts. Mitch has no legal restrictions. He is clear before the law and before us,« the general manager stated. According to him, the club gathered feedback from players who worked with Love, and all were positive. NHL goal-scoring record holder Alexander Ovechkin also gave a positive recommendation.

The Ovechkin factor

Belykh confirmed that he sought advice from Alexander Ovechkin. «Yes, Ovechkin»s opinion also influenced, like other feedback. Alexander spoke very favorably of Mitch,« the general manager said. He clarified that Love and Ovechkin did not work closely, as Love was responsible for defensemen in Washington. Nevertheless, Ovechkin recommended appointing Love: »Sasha said: if there is an opportunity to agree with Mitch, then it must definitely be done.«

Playoff berth — no promises

Speaking about tournament prospects, Mitch Love avoided promises. «I don»t want to judge now on what position the team is in,« he noted. Instead, the coach focused on day-to-day work. »The first thing I will pay attention to is human relationships,« Love said. He plans to build contact with players and staff.

Love also emphasized that he doesn«t want the team to look too far ahead. »If you look at what will be in a month, you can miss very important things that are happening right now,« he explained. The coach does not aim for an immediate playoff berth, but intends to move step by step.

No revolutions: staff, style, and «toughness»

When asked about possible changes in the coaching staff, Sergei Belykh responded: «We have no goal now to radically destroy or rebuild anything.» Love supported this position, stating that abrupt changes in the middle of the season would be a mistake. «Abrupt changes now would be incorrect,» he said.

Discussing playing style, Love noted that fights in modern hockey have become rare. «The game has changed a lot. Now there are practically no fights even in North America, so I personally will not expect my players to fight under my guidance. But I want it to be difficult to play against our team. I want us to play tough, on the edge, but without taking too many penalties. We must be competitive,» the coach stated.

Belykh added that from Love, they expect building a systematic defense where every player understands his role.

Prospects of relocation

Mitch Love did not speculate about a possible move of the team to Shanghai. «I haven»t thought about it yet and haven«t made predictions. Now I»m in St. Petersburg with the team, and my focus is here. And, honestly, I am very pleasantly surprised by the city and the people,« he said.

Sergei Belykh reported that at least the next season the Dragons will spend in St. Petersburg. Relocation is a long-term process. The club plans to hold test matches in Shanghai in March. «These matches will answer many questions. This is an important test for us from all points of view,» the general manager noted.

Belykh also acknowledged that the team has received unexpectedly strong support from fans in St. Petersburg, which complicates a quick move.