The Detroit Red Wings needed some redemption against the New York Islanders. The Islanders have dominated Detroit this season, scoring 12 goals in two games. Fortunately, the Red Wings were able to grab a hard fought victory in game three.
Alex Debrincat was able to score two power play goals in the third period to give Detroit the lead. The Red Wings fell behind early, however they were able to fight their way back. Detroit has struggled when playing from behind, but this group showed some resilience.
The Red Wings have won five of their past six games, with points in eight of their past nine. Thus, the team continues to hold a spot in the wild card race in a very tight division. However, there isn’t much room for error even as the season approaches the halfway point.
Alex Debrincat and Axel Sandin-Pellikka
Alex Debrincat continues to lead the way for Detroit in goal scoring. Debrincat had two goals in the win, and has nine points in his past five games. In that stretch, Debrincat has three two goal performances. Consequently, “The Cat” was the fastest Red Wing to reach 20 goals since Henrik Zetterberg in 2007-2008. This after Debrincat started the season with a career high eight game goalless streak.
Rookie Axel Sandin-Pellikka continues to impress, as he scored his fourth goal of the year. ASP now has five points in his past five games. The 20 year old rookie seemed to have come alive on the recent road trip. Coach Todd McLellan has praised both the defensive and offensive growth of ASP in recent weeks.
This game was an important milestone for Detroit
Detroit’s victory came in game 34 of the season, and it holds some significant. Last season, head coach Derek LaLonde was released after the same number of games played. At that time, Detroit had a 13-17-4 record. Conversely, the Wings currently hold a 19-12-3 record, with 41 points as opposed to 30 a year ago. McLellan is transforming the team, and the results are starting to be evident.
Moreover, the Red Wings have also benefitted from the resurgence of goaltender John Gibson of late. Gibson has won his past five starts, with two shutouts during that stretch. Thus, the six game road trip seems to have helped Gibson to reset after a difficult start.
Still, the Red Wings can’t afford to take any nights off. The team will be right back in action playing as they face the Utah Mammoth. Detroit will play seven games in the remaining two weeks of 2025. The schedule remains unforgiving, however Detroit seems to be clicking at the right time.
Hiya, Jeremy!! Good recap.
I was impressed, overall, with the pace of the game. May have gotten away from us a few times, but the ice tilts both ways. We buzzed whilst in the attacking zone, did a fairly decent job of maintaining control, and moved well. There were some errant passes, of course but again, the ice tilts both ways.
ASP is growing. I think he’s a long way from his full potential, but he’s an asset. He’s playing a more physical game, as well.
Liked what I saw with Leonard as well. He adapted to the spped and flow of our game. He’s played in the NHL, so he knows what to expect. And honestly, I’d not be upset so see him stay up; he’s showing a good head on his shoulders.
Overall, we played a really presentable game. It was good to see the team grow over the past couple of weeks – far better than last year, no doubt.
Let’s see what Utah has to offer….