The Detroit Red Wings needed to bounce back from a tough loss to the Utah Mammoth. The team responded to that disappointment with a 5-2 win over the Washington Capitals. Detroit played one of their most complete games of the season, and they were rewarded for it.
However, Washington won’t have to wait long to respond to that loss. The teams play again in just 24 hours, and the Red Wings will need to be on their toes. Still, Detroit is starting to show signs of growth in terms of game management. After one year at the helm, coach Todd McLellan is making an impact for the rebuilding team.
John Gibson’s resurgence, and depth scoring
Detroit’s victory signaled a seventh consecutive win for goalie John Gibson. However, Gibson struggled in November, unable to find a win in any of his starts. Conversely, the veteran goalie has been unstoppable in the month of December. Gibson stopped 24 of 26 shots in the win, and factored heavily in Detroit’s success.
John Leonard, recently recalled from the AHL, opened the scoring. Leonard’s performance for the Grand Rapids Griffins has been incredible, scoring 19 goals in 20 games. Consequently, the Red Wings are giving the AHL journeyman a huge opportunity. However, Leonard had not played in the NHL since the 2023-2024 season.
Elmer Soderblom and James Van Riemsdyk also had goals for Detroit. The Red Wings have needed more players to contribute to the offense. Van Riemsdyk has been contributing, now scoring eight goals on the season. JVR is also effective on the power play as a net front presence.
Soderblom scored just his second goal of the season. However, his play of late has been greatly improved. Standing 6’8”, Soderblom can be very effective if he’s physically engaged around the net. He can make plays in tight, and his board battles have been much improved.
Defensive contributions from Seider and Edvinsson
Moritz Seider scored an impressive goal after creating a 2 on 0 rush in the defensive zone. Seider’s offensive output has been impressive, with 26 points in 36 games this year. Therefore, He’s on pace to eclipse his previous season high 50 points, scored in his rookie season.
Similarly, Simon Edvinsson factored into the win, adding two assists and a +3 rating. Edvinsson continues to grow his game, averaging almost 22 minutes a night. The pair are Seider and Edvinsson look to be the future of Detroit’s blue line. It’s worth noting that Edvinsson is in the final year of his entry level deal.
Heya, Jeremy!
Great game last night, eh? Watching the back half of the B2B right now. Incredible to see the Caotains of the ’70s….. Sooo many memories, can say how fortunate I was to be able to watch Mickey and Woods lead the team and play such motivated hockey despite the dismal showing of the club overall.
I really, REALLY can see Leonard staying up. He’s playing such a defensively responsible game. Add in the unexpected resurgence of Copp and Chiarot, Leonard helps level the defensive drive for this team. I love the way he plays, he’s ruthless, and we need more of that.
I see Kasper sitting today, he just needs to recalibrate. He’s playing a solid defensive game, but offensively – he’s lacking.
I really like the top D-Line; Mo & Eddy are truly top of the league, and Mo’s finally getting the flowers he so richly deserves…
We look good, no doubt, but Talbot’s really rough in net. Something’s got to give. The concern, of course, would be pulling Cossa up from GRG after their insane start. I just don’t see Talbot being a viable option the way he’s currently playing.
Hope you’re well, my friend. 🎄🎄🎄
It’s great to see you Mike!! Yesterday was a pleasant surprise for sure!! This team has had some really good moments, with Seider and Edvinsson starting to emerge as a big part of the future. Talbot gets a big win and snaps that losing streak. Hoping the team can play strong with two really tough games ahead!!