The Detroit Red Wings lost to the New Jersey Devils, and the team wasn’t ready to start this game. Detroit outshot New Jersey, 35-19, however the first period was too much to overcome. Unfortunately, slow starts continue to cause problems for the young Red Wings squad.
The Wings had a strong second half, wherein they very nearly tied the game late in the third. Still, early mistakes in coverage cost the team from at least getting an overtime point. Cam Talbot wasn’t able to recreate his performance of the previous game and bail the team out this time.
Detroit needs every point right now
Due to the condensed schedule, the Red Wings are playing four games in just six days this week. In three of the next four, Detroit will be playing against divisional opponents. The top six teams in the Atlantic division are separated by only three points in the standing. Consequently, each loss is even more impactful at this point in the season.
Coach Todd McLellan has been candid about the missteps in the Red Wings’ losses. Lapses in coverage continue to create grade A opportunities for opposing teams. Somehow, Detroit needs to erase those glaring issues and rebound quickly from another tough loss.
The Red Wings face the Predators at home
Fortunately, Detroit will have an opportunity to turn things around very quickly. The Nashville Predators are coming to town, and this is a team that is really struggling. However, the Red Wings can’t afford to take any opponent lightly right now. Therefore, another poor opening performance could easily turn this game into a trap for Detroit.
Interestingly, the Predators are at the heart of a trade rumor involving the Red Wings. Veteran centerman Ryan O’Reilly is rumored to be available, still the asking price is unknown. The Red Wings attempt to strengthen the center position has been problematic.
Among the issues, Marco Kasper has been unable to recreate last year’s performance. Similarly, Andrew Copp and J.T. Compher haven’t lived up to expectations. Even so, it will be interesting to see if Steve Yzerman makes a move. Somehow, the team needs to stabilize the top six, and quickly.
