Los Angeles Kings’ head coach Todd McLellan is taking his team to task, holding no punches, following their poor performance across a four-game Midwestern road trip.

McLellan placed blame directly on the players as the Kings were dropped to 4-8-0 after Sunday’s loss and were outscored 15-4 in the final three games of the roadtrip.

“The schedule has nothing to do with it because the other teams are playing the exact same amount of games, so let’s clarify that the schedule is not an excuse, certainly for our team,” McLellan said, following their loss to the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday.

“I think this trip was good, because it let us know that there are some players that probably can’t play in the league right now,” the bench boss added. “So maybe we’ll have to make some changes. There are some veterans that really have to pick up their play. We’ll have to have a chat with them.”

The Los Angeles Kings are embarking on a search for a new head coach and have already announced that they are moving on from interim head coach Willie Desjardins.

According to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, the Kings have asked the Edmonton Oilers for permission to interview former head coach Todd McLellan.

McClellan appears to be the target of the Kings coaching search.

McLellan was fired back in November of this season.

The Los Angeles Kings have informed interim head coach Williw Desjardins that he will not be brought back next season.

According to The Athletic’s Lisa Dillman, the Kings are currently working on a new coaching hire, although nothing is considered to be imminent.

“Today we thanked Willie Desjardins for his effort and dedication while serving as our interim head coach,” Kings general Rob Blake said in a statement.

“We wish Willie and his family nothing but the best going forward. The process for hiring our next head coach is underway and we look forward to conducting a thorough search for the right person to lead our team.”