Red Wings: High Flying Wings Taken Down by Tenacious Stars

Goal Scoring isn’t always enough

The Red Wings prospects were described as fast and highly skilled by the Dallas broadcast team. Those attributes led to a 6-2 win over Dallas on Saturday night. Unfortunately, Sunday evening saw a very different result. The team was able to score five goals, but gave up six to the Stars prospects. 

The Stars were able to rally for four goals in the third period, erasing Detroit’s 4-2 lead. The Stars physical engagement and tenacity were a big part of that turn around. While the final result was disappointing, there was a lot to like from the Detroit prospects. 

Nate Danielson and Shai Buium look ready for Red Wings

There were several standout performances from the Detroit prospects. Amadeus Lombardi looks to be the most tenacious offensive presence in the system. Emmitt Finnie looks like a potential 7th round steal. However, the performances of Nate Danielson and Shai Buium stood out above the rest. 

Danielson’s stick work is relentless in all three zones. He can protect the puck, effortlessly take it from an opponent, and make plays out of nothing. Buium also looks comfortable over the entire ice surface. His offensive prowess combined with strength and speed could fill a major void on Detroit’s blue line. These two players will be competing for a spot in the Motor City. 

A new era of skilled players is here

There is a clear organizational need to improve defensive structure and execution. A former NHL forward once told me, “you can teach defense, you can’t teach scoring”. If that is the case, then Detroit has a lot to look forward to. The skill displayed in Texas saw 11 goals scored in two games. 

Players like Lombardi were able to create offense with their skating and puck management. Axel Sandin-Pellikka moves the puck effortlessly, and his shot selection is incredible. These young players are creating offense at an incredible level, and that’s looks to be the hallmark of the rebuild. The organization now needs to address goals against and team defense. Once they accomplish that, there are better days ahead in Detroit.