The Detroit Red Wings are heading on the road. However, Patrick Kane will be staying in Detroit. Kane is still rehabilitating, although exactly what the injury is hasn’t been revealed. Detroit has missed Kane in his absence, in particular his linemate Marco Kasper.
Kasper continues to struggle offensively, in fact Coach McLellan alluded to the slow start in recent interviews. Kane is a big part of what had been Detroit’s best line last year, however that line has struggled so far. Alex Debrincat had a career high eight game goal drought to start the season, but finally got on the board. The Red Wings are counting on that line, unfortunately Kane isn’t ready to start the Western swing.
Emmitt Finnie continues to shine
Fortunately for Detroit, Dylan Larkin’s line has been incredible early on in the season. Rookie Emmitt Finnie continues to turn heads, in doing so bringing stability to Larkin’s wing. Finnie now has eight points (4g, 4a) in nine games, consequently tied for second on the team in points with Debrincat.
Finnie’s ability to stabilize the wing has been a bit of a shock, albeit a welcome one. Along with Raymond, that line has contributed 27 points (12 g, 17a) through nine games. Finnie’s speed and strength are matched by an impressive hockey IQ, and an ability to find “quiet ice”. The rookie seems to know how to get open, and defenders are still unaware of his presence. In the early goings, Finnie has been Detroit’s top rookie as he continues to grow his game.
MBN is struggling greatly
To the contrary, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard is struggling early on. MBN finally tallied his first NHL point, an assist on Berggren’s goal against the Islanders. During the Red Wing’s incredible comeback against the Blues, MBN’s minutes were cut in half. The coaches limited MBN to just 6:37 in that game, well below his usual 12:30.
Up until then, the coaching staff has been please with MBN’s overall game. Brandsegg-Nygard’s next NHL game will be his tenth, thereby using the first year of his entry level contract. There hasn’t been any indication of a demotion, however that could change if things don’t improve. Nate Danielson and Carter Mazur are both healthy, and both are hungry for an opportunity.
