The Detroit Red Wings gave up a three goal lead against the Carolina Hurricanes. Detroit entered the third period up 3-0 but the ‘Canes stormed back to force the game into overtime. Carolina had all the momentum, however Detroit was able to grab their fourth straight win in dramatic fashion. A controversial goal by Andrew Copp sealed the victory, and Detroit grabbed their 60th point of the season.
Accordingly, the Red Wings sit atop of the Atlantic Division and the Eastern Conference. However, there is no room for error as the standings remain incredibly tight. Therefore, the Red Wings need to be keenly aware that every one of their next 11 games before the break weighs heavily. A losing streak could very easily see Detroit once again on the outside looking in right now.
The Red Wings were outshot 34-18, yet managed to score four goals in this surprising victory. The Red Wings are flying high, however defensive lapses raise some legitimate concerns. This team is pushing hard to make the playoffs, but in the end they may still need some help. Therefore, this season’s success may lie in the team’s ability to add defensive help via the trade market.
The resurgence of Andrew Copp
Andrew Copp had a goal and an assist in the game, including scoring the overtime winner. Since December, Copp has been a significant part of Detroit’s success. The veteran centerman has 19 points in his past 21 games, including 7 goal in that time. Copp is on pace for his best season playing for the Detroit Red Wings.
Yet, heading into the season there was plenty of criticism regarding Copp’s performance. The first 26 games did little to help, with just one goal and eight assists in that time. However, starting December 2nd Copp has been a regular on the scoresheet for Detroit. Centering a line of Patrick Kane and Alex Debrincat, the trio has been at the heart of Detroit’s success.
Linemate Alex Debrincat had another three point night, his sixth of the season. Patrick Kane added an assist, thus the trio combined for six points in the matchup. However, Detroit is going to need some more stability in the top six outside of this line. Accordingly, if the team can add a top six centerman before the trade deadline the Red Wings could take another step forward in the team’s rebuild.
The Red Wings still need some upgrades
Amid the success, the Red Wings still struggle to put together a full 60 minute effort. Some players like Copp and John Gibson have gotten hot, however players like Marco Kasper continue to struggle. Kasper still has just six points this season after a rookie campaign that saw him score 19 goals and 18 assists. Accordingly, Detroit continues to try and find the best spot for Kasper in the current lineup.
The Red Wings will enter the Olympic break with just 24 games remaining in the season. This next stretch sees the team play 11 games in 22 days. Therefore, Detroit cannot afford to slip and will need contributions throughout the lineup. Kasper scored 17 of his 19 goals last season after January 10th, but odds of that happening again seem slim. Thus, the Red Wings need to find some more help to see them snap their playoff drought.
Trade rumors are swirling, with names like Rasmus Andersson and Ryan O’Reillybeing mentioned. Upgrades at center and defense could make a significant impact on Detroit’s ability to maintain their success. However, the market prices are high and there’s fierce competition. Detroit seems to be on the precipice of success, but there are a lot of questions that still need answers.
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