Buffalo was overwhelmed by Detroit forecheck
The Red Wings win over the Blackhawks on Sunday saw a massive shot differential favoring Detroit. The Wings brought that same effort against Buffalo, and accordingly won again. Detroit won 5-2 with a shot differential of 40-18, and further cemented the youth movement.
By the end of the second period, the shots were 32-9 in favor of the Wings. Indeed, the team seems driven to control the game through puck management and skill. Prospects continue to battle for roster spots, likewise the veterans find themselves fighting for their places.
Andrew Copp has answered the Challenge
Andrew Copp and JT Compher in particular have been called out by the coaches. Both were high value acquisitions, yet neither has lived up to expectations. Copp, however, seems to be rising to the occasion in the pre season. Compher, conversely, may end up being the odd man out.
Last night, Copp helped open the scoring, assisting on a short handed goal from Mason Appleton. Copp later added his own goal, swatting a puck out of mid air while in the crease. The veteran centerman left his fingerprints on the victory, in addition to raising his own stock. Copp looks like a player driven to make a difference right now.
The Panda and the Pelican reunite
There were outstanding performances amongst the young players, once again. In particular, the chemistry of Michael Brandsegg-Nygard and Axel Sandin-Pellikkais undeniable. The two young players seem to feed off of each other, particularly during the man advantage.
MBN’s power play goal was a prime, and perfect example of their chemistry. ASP’s mobility and puck management draw attention, thus allowing MBN to find some open ice. A quick pass turns into a goal, and the two didn’t miss a beat. There seems to be a good reason for the excitement around these two prospects.
Maybe MBN and ASP will come to Detroit together on the same day with what we saw indeed. They are getting better and better (I was a bit worried of ASP’s start but he needed time, it is getting much better).
Copp is doing what he can, that’s positive, but Compher and Berggren are lost, for me.
So that’s 2 or 3 “seats” on the team, between JVR, MBN, Danielson, Finnie, Lombardi and Mazur… so difficult !
For the D, too soon for ASP but once he will be on the team, nobody will take his place. Wallinder/Buium instead of Holl ?
AlJ ready too.
Nice solid pre season games indeed.
I’m actually still rooting for Berggren. He was sixth in goals last season with 12 and sub 13 mins playing time. He’s energized and driven. However it lands, the call ups are going to be solid for Grand Rapids this year. I agree on ASP. Needs some D time, his stick work helps a lot (not the fastest skater) but incredibly smart. MBN may fight his way onto the roster. Using his size plus his shot gives some sandpaper they need. So impressed by the young guys this year. Thanks for stopping by!
Well, this was the Saber’s “B” team and the Wings “A” team. Let’s ee what happens this weekend………..if anyone can! ????
I did like Postava in net. He was actually better than Talbot. Maybe Y’s plan on collecting goalies is to create a shortage and peddle one for a top 6 guy! ????
Postava definitely looked solid. Talbot seems to let in a shaky goal or two. Never say never, but the trade market seems to have passed by at this point. I feel good about a couple of the young guys being able to step in (similar to Kasper last season) but again, we’ll see it pan out. Definitely a more NHL roster for Detroit, but the kids continue to impress. Shot differential very similar to the other night. Nice to see. Thanks for stopping by!