The Detroit Red Wings needed a win, however another slow start cost them a big opportunity. Detroit is now in a three way tie, outside of the playoffs, and only has nine games left. The Philadelphia Flyers put themselves into that mix by beating Detroit in a game Detroit may remember for months to come.
Philadelphia put Detroit in a 4-0 hole before Mason Appleton finally broke through. To make things exciting, Detroit scored three goals in less than three minutes in third period. However, the fourth goal just could not be found, and a late empty net goal by the Flyers put the game out of reach. A four goal deficit was just too much for the team to overcome in the final 20 minutes of play.
Detroit had just beaten the Buffalo Sabres, yet the team could not find a way to start a game on time. The Red Wings’ first period woes continue to plague the team, this season. There are now four teams all fighting for the final wild card spot as the season winds down to a close. Consequently, the Red Wings will need to win at least six of their final nine games just to have a chance to stay in the mix.
Coach Todd McLellan is disappointed
Coach Todd McLellan didn’t hold back in his post game interview. The coach was disappointed by the performance, especially after the win in Buffalo. John Gibson, who has carried the team for much of the season ,was relieved in the third period. Gibson has not been able to replicate his miraculous performance consistently after returning from the Olympic Break. Once again, the month of March appears to have undone any momentum from the regular season.
The Red Wings have tied last year’s win and points total, however are still five points shy of their best season in the rebuild. The Red Wings came close to the playoffs two seasons ago with 91 points, just missing the final wild card spot. However, this year the demands are higher, and the team could need 98 points just to get in. Detroit’s best season, so far, in a decade still has the team falling short right now.
Axel Sandin-Pellikka is finding new life in the AHL
The Red Wings are struggling, however their AHL affiliate is heating up again as the post season approaches. The Grand Rapids Griffins have all but secured home ice advantage for the first few rounds of the playoffs. Furthermore, the team is getting reinforcements as the season winds down. The addition of Axel Sandin-Pellikka has been a boost for the team as well as the player.
ASP scored the game tying goal late in the third period of a 3-2 overtime win over the Chicago Wolves. That was ASP’s second goal and third point in just three games played for the Griffins. The move has already seen a boost in confidence for the 20 year old defenseman. His ability to move the puck and create offense is on full display, and it’s a lot of fun to watch.
Additionally, Anton Johansson is returning to North America after winding down his season in Europe. Johansson played for Grand Rapids at the end of last season as well, often paired with prospect Shai Buium. The big right shot defender brings a physical element that Detroit desperately needs to add. The Griffins are looking to make a deep playoff run this year, with their eyes set on the Calder Cup finals.
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