Red Wings Showcase Skill and Speed in Scrimmage

Detroit’s annual Red and White Game

The Red Wings have been pushing the pace through training camp, and into the final scrimmage. The annual Red and White game was a continuation of the intense on ice action. Fans got to see players who are fighting for a spot, and for NHL jobs today. 

Team White ended up winning the contest with goals from Alex Debrincat and Elmer Soderblom. The line of Kasper, Kane and Debrincat continues to stand tall as the team’s best. There were some pleasant surprises from some of the younger players, who are challenging the veterans. 

Emmit Finnie getting top line minutes

It serves as a testament to Emmit Finnie’s work ethic, as the prospect skated as Dylan Larkin’s wing. Finnie continues to bring energy and passion to the ice in the pre season.  It’s hard to tell whether or not Finnie will start in the NHL, but he is certainly high on the call up list. 

Finnie was able to get on the scoreboard late in the game for team Red. Lucas Raymond carried the puck into the offensive zone, then created a rush out of nothing. Finnie kept his stick blade on the ice and tapped in a beautiful pass from Raymond. That line seems to be clicking, but expect looks from James Van Riemsdyk when he arrives in Detroit. 

Elmer Soderblom scores twice for Team White

Elmer Soderblom was moved off of Larkin’s line for Finnie, and the big forward the ice with something to prove. The remarkable play of Amadeus Lombardi found Soderblom twice, which led to quick goals and to team White’s 3-2 victory. Soderblom wastes no time getting the puck off of his stick when he has the chance to shoot. 

Soderblom may well have a permanent place on Detroit’s roster, and it’s hard to argue at this point. While he is a likely candidate for the third line, his size and shot will work well on the power play. Lombardi’s tenacity should earn him a look in Detroit sooner rather than later. The young players know that there are jobs to be had, and are making their case to take them.