The Detroit Red Wings saw their post season hopes end in a regulation loss to the New Jersey Devils. Every game was a must win, but Detroit saw another third period collapse end their game, and consequently end their season as well. The Red Wings now hold the longest active streak of missing the playoffs in the NHL.
Detroit held the lead three times in this game, including a 3-2 lead in the third period. New Jersey was able to tie the game and take the lead with under 4 minutes remaining. The Red Wings will once again have to answer for a total collapse after the month of February.
However, unlike like last year the a lack of player trades won’t be the narrative. Steve Yzerman acquired Justin Faulk at the trade deadline, and it was costly. Yzerman gave up an unprotected first round pick to bring the highly sought after defenseman in. Thus, Detroit will not at this point be part of the first round of this year’s draft. A long summer just got a little bit longer.
Injuries put a spotlight on lack of depth
Injuries certainly played a part in the team’s predicament, without question. Dylan Larkin, in particular, was lost to injury at the beginning of March and the team could not respond. Larkin returned, however it’s clear that the Captain is nowhere near 100%. Similarly, Andrew Copp has been battling injury while trying to help the team compete. Detroit’s lack of depth at center will certainly be a huge focus during the team’s exit interviews.
Simon Edvinsson also dealt with injury, undergoing surgery during the Olympic Break. However, Edvinsson is still dealing with injury issues in the final stretch. The “March Meltdown” may well have been a death by a thousand cuts for this team. Unfortunately, there will be plenty of time to process the issues in the upcoming offseason.
Everyone is looking for answers
Dylan Larkin was somber as he answered questions, placing blame squarely upon himself. Lapses in coverage in the offensive zone turned into goals against, including the game winner. Coach Todd McLellan cited the same issues on the first and fourth goals, however did not single out Larkin. The lapses were symptomatic of deeper issues that have plagued this team.
Mclellan acknowledged that the goals set in training camp seemed completely undone after the Olympic Break. Mental toughness, in particular, has been missing from the team’s mindset. When the Red Wings faced adversity in the past month, they have not been able to bounce back. That fall off managed to undo some of the best hockey Detroit has played in over a decade.
The Red Wings will play two more games to finish off the season. The team has a lot to discuss, and plenty of time to do so. For now, the disappointment of a 10th year missing the playoffs is going to set in for players and fans alike.
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