Red Wings See Big Changes in Hot Start

The Detroit Red Wings shootout win over LA was intense, however the team was not prepared for Anaheim the next day. The 5-2 loss was rough, in contrast the overall season start has been impressive. The Red Wings sit at 8-4-0 through 12 games, consequently they are riding high early in the season.

The Red Wings went 7-3-0 in the first ten games, thereby rising to a start they hadn’t seen since the 2010 season. The opening schedule was intense, but the Red Wings have performed admirably. The team is young, and the positive momentum does a lot to build confidence for this team.

Comparing the numbers to last season

The end of last season saw some tough numbers, in particular the penalty kill was especially bad. The team finished last year at 70.11%, but this year they have started at 86.11%. That shift is enough for 8th best, in contrast to dead last in the prior season. That change alone could do a lot for this team, especially considering the 25% powerplay, ranked 10th in the league.

The goal differential is nearly a wash, coming in at 3.33 for vs 3.25 against. Goals against is still an area that needs help, in fact it’s critical for the team to move forward. The goalies have made timely saves, unfortunately defense continues to experience breakdowns. Going forward, the Red Wings will need to tighten up defensively to have a shot at the post season.

GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS GOALS VS ROCKFORD ICE HOGS https://t.co/p2J3gWoLD1 via @YouTube @griffinshockey goal compilation from win over @goicehogs as the Griffins open to a historic 7-0 start
— Red Wings Report by Strings’nPucks (@TheJeremyLaura) November 2, 2025

The prospects are perfect right now

While the Red Wings start is impressive, the Griffins have been nearly perfect to start the year. The AHL affiliate has been good, in fact they’re showing a strong pipeline available for Detroit. John Leonard has seven goals and 2 assists, likewise Dominic Shine has 5 goals and 2 assists. There are already options for call ups if, and truthfully when Detroit will need them.

Nate Danielson continues to impress, and MBN has finally gotten his first regular season assist on the board. Brandsegg-Nygard is also adding physicality to his game, something Detroit needs more of to be sure. The Red Wings have a bright future ahead, it remains to be seen if that will translate to a successful season for this year.