Detroit Red Wings: Grading The Atlantic Division

Oct 13, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Red Wings left wing Teemu Pulkkinen (56) takes a shot in the third period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Joe Louis Arena. Detroit won 3-1. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

We’re a week into the new season so it’s time to evaluate how the teams in the Atlantic division have started. We use the standard grading system, A to F. If your team got an ‘F’, it’s probably time to start panicking.

Team – Detroit Red Wings

Total Points – 6

Grade – A

After defeating the Maple Leafs and Hurricanes, Tuesdays victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning has seen the team and their lone loss to Carolina, go 3-1-0. I’ve graded the Red Wings an ‘A’ because of how dominant the team has been playing. Coach Blashill’s ethos is definitely working. Carolina almost provided an upset, taking advantage of some sloppy defending when the Red Wings visited the PNC Arena, but were beaten back by a never-say-die attitude. Goalie Jimmy Howard has impressed early on and made a strong bid for the starting role. While they got their revenge Friday night, the Red Wings are still a top team in the Atlantic.

The Red Wings play an original six rival tonight when they take on the Montreal Canadiens.

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