The Red Wings fell 5-1 to Montreal, and everyone is shouldering the blame right now. John Gibson only faced 13 shots, however the team is collectively penitent. Coach Todd McLellan has asked the players, “are you tired of this yet?”
The lapses in defensive play, and truthfully all play , are being described as major. Montreal’s strengths were well known, but unfortunately not addressed at game time. The team known it wants to, and quite frankly needs to be better.
Cam Talbot will get the start
While Gibson was not solely at fault, Cam Talbot will get the nod against Toronto. Talbot came in relief in game one, and looked steady in net. The Red Wings have been desperate for consistency in net for far too long.
Talbot became Detroit’s go to goalie last season, posting a .901 save percentage and 2.91 goals against in 47 games. The Red Wings penalty kill was awful, and a league worst 79.6%. That stat was enough to derail a 27% power play, standing at fourth best in the NHL.
James Van Riemsdyk is almost ready
The Red Wings will soon get a needed, and long overdue look at James Van Riemsdyk. The former second overall pick missed training camp, however seems to be up to speed now. Coach McLellan stated that JVR will play either Saturday or Monday, which could be good news for Detroit.
There is hope that JVR will help with offense, thus getting a look on the top line. Rookie Emmitt Finnie has been skating there, but may see some other assignments soon. The Red Wings need to get the lines all going, but don’t have a lot of time to do it. The opening six games could push the team backward, and quickly if they’re not careful.
