The Detroit Red Wings are heading on the road. However, Patrick Kane will be staying in Detroit. Kane is still rehabilitating, although exactly what the injury is hasn’t been revealed. Detroit has missed Kane in his absence, in particular his linemate Marco Kasper.
Kasper continues to struggle offensively, in fact Coach McLellan alluded to the slow start in recent interviews. Kane is a big part of what had been Detroit’s best line last year, however that line has struggled so far. Alex Debrincat had a career high eight game goal drought to start the season, but finally got on the board. The Red Wings are counting on that line, unfortunately Kane isn’t ready to start the Western swing.
Emmitt Finnie continues to shine
Fortunately for Detroit, Dylan Larkin’s line has been incredible early on in the season. Rookie Emmitt Finnie continues to turn heads, in doing so bringing stability to Larkin’s wing. Finnie now has eight points (4g, 4a) in nine games, consequently tied for second on the team in points with Debrincat.
Finnie’s ability to stabilize the wing has been a bit of a shock, albeit a welcome one. Along with Raymond, that line has contributed 27 points (12 g, 17a) through nine games. Finnie’s speed and strength are matched by an impressive hockey IQ, and an ability to find “quiet ice”. The rookie seems to know how to get open, and defenders are still unaware of his presence. In the early goings, Finnie has been Detroit’s top rookie as he continues to grow his game.
MBN is struggling greatly
To the contrary, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard is struggling early on. MBN finally tallied his first NHL point, an assist on Berggren’s goal against the Islanders. During the Red Wing’s incredible comeback against the Blues, MBN’s minutes were cut in half. The coaches limited MBN to just 6:37 in that game, well below his usual 12:30.
Up until then, the coaching staff has been please with MBN’s overall game. Brandsegg-Nygard’s next NHL game will be his tenth, thereby using the first year of his entry level contract. There hasn’t been any indication of a demotion, however that could change if things don’t improve. Nate Danielson and Carter Mazur are both healthy, and both are hungry for an opportunity.
Nygaard sent down. Was wondering if and when this was coming. You gotta think Mazur will get the nod to come up to Detroit. He’s earned it and it will take a few games for Danielsong to get his legs and timing back. Wings gotta start playing like they did when they won five in a row. Play fast and take away the other team’s time and space. Return to a puck-possession team like they’ve shown they can be. As long as they play good team defense, the offense will come.
It’s really interesting. They didn’t announce a corresponding move, and Kane is still out as well. Curious timing, but we’ll see what pans out. I have a writeup coming in the morning. I had to redo my last video AS I was posting it because MBN was sent down: https://youtu.be/eVjxxwazt2A?si=O3uKh8huVKpVMkfz
Howdy, Jeremy & readers.
Listen, the comeback vs STL was impressive. The Spittin’ Chiclets guys have great things to say about the team, 2/3 projected SCPO this year. Not sure where I stand, but my heart says there may be another year of heart-break. Not sure. I will say that right now, Finnie is a revelation.
Finnie’s been on fire, bit MBN is struggling enough to be sent down to GRG. I’d think there won’t be a call-up, yet. ASP is still learning, but he plays so well. Watching him walk the line on PP2 is impressive; he sees the ice and lanes well but needs to work on that as a natural growth-curve.
What I’ve seen in the losses (HORRIBLE losses, as was 1/2 of the STL game…) shows some bad habits coming back; errant passes, not clogging opponent’s passing lanes, giving too much time, and confusion. Whatever the Todd Father said vs STL seemed to click; he was VERY animated. There’s a good deal of growth this team still needs to go through.
Reading lots of chatter about Bear-Grin being on the block. I’d say if we attached Gus, we could probably get a decent return Berg’s just snake-bit. Not sure why. It’d be nice to see his recent hot streak catch on and him turn his game around. He’s been much more active defensively, battling along the boards, etc… But I’m thinking he’s on his way out. I like the kid, he’ll do well enough someplace else, though.
The next 2 weeks will definitely show what we have as a team. I really hope it clicks. LAK & VGK are tough teams, and STL’s going to be out for revenge. This team’s got to click. There’s serious talent, we need to find the right combos and motivators to make this thing move…..
So good to see you Mike!! JB has (allegedly) been tied to Pittsburgh since last summer. There was a rumor he was part of a package to get Karlsson, but it never panned out. Definitely curious to see if anything shifts on this trip. Man, so happy you dropped by!!!
It’s been chaotic around here, my friend; job hunting, Family medical, etc… But know that nearly every day, I stop by and at least read/view your latest updates!!! Always great insights.
I know people are interested in Karlsson, but honestly I think he’s a defensive liability. He’s much slower, was never a defensive threat, great offensive skills (although somewhat dimished…), I just don’t see him being THE defensive upgrade we are so desperate for. We have enough liabilities. Heck, I was begging for Byrum or some such; young, room to grow, will be a viable part of the team for a while, etc… I just feel that any move we make needs to be made with the future in mind. Now, stop-gap until ASP, Buium, et. al., hit? MAYBE. We need 3 stabilizers: D, F, & G. EK doesn’t fit, in my opinion……
Oh man, praying things settle in for you Mike. I would definitely like to see a legitimate top 4 defensive upgrade. Edvinsson still needs to iron things out. As does ASP. I know they love Chiarot but would love an upgrade there. Chiarot, Holl and Gustafsson all on expiring deals. It feels like the market will probably open up around Christmas. Teams will start to decide if they’re going to push or if they can move players for assets. Buium, man i was excited to see him in pre season. Still no update on injury so I’m not sure how serious it is.