Despite what the record may say, the Detroit Red Wings had a very promising October.
In the past, the Red Wings would often wilt when down a goal or two. This season, things seem different. From surprising upsets to outstanding rookie debuts, this brand of Red Wings hockey is more tenacious and gritty than we've seen in years. Even in tough losses like Halloween's game against the St. Louis Blues, the Wings fought and fought until the clock ticked down to zero.
If you were hoping things would slow down in November, you'll be disappointed.
This is what the Red Wings have on their agenda over the next few weeks:
Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
November 5 | vs. Vegas Golden Knights |
November 7 | @ Colorado Avalanche |
November 10 | @ St. Louis Blues |
November 12 | @ Florida Panthers |
November 14 | @ Tampa Bay Lightning |
November 18 | vs. Boston Bruins |
November 21 | vs. New York Islanders |
November 25 | vs. Vancouver Canucks |
November 27 | @ Columbus Blue Jackets |
November 28 | vs. Nashville Predators |
Of the 10 remaining opponents on November's slate, eight currently hold a record above .500. Six are currently in a playoff spot. If that isn't bad enough, they've got to worry about a long four game road trip from November 7 to November 14, with four games in a week's time. To call this a trial by fire is an understatement -- especially with John Gibson's injury and Albert Johansson's trip to injured reserve.
November big test for team's identity
This is the biggest test to the Red Wings thus far. It wouldn't be a shock to see a few tough losses here and there, but, if this team truly is different, we might see some steals, as well. After all, we just saw the Red Wings take down the Florida Panthers in a 5-3 victory a few short days ago.
Much of this team's response to adversity will hinge on its younger players.
Michael Brandsegg-Nygard - who, as of the afternoon of November 5, is tied for fourth in the NHL in hits, is a massive part of the team's new identity. His hard-nosed style of play, coupled with the relentlessness of players like Emmitt Finnie, Moritz Seider and, often, Alex DeBrincat, makes this team tough as nails across its top lines and pairings.
While concerns around depth are certainly valid, reinforcements are on their way.
Head coach Todd McLellan shared today that center Marco Kasper will rejoin the Wings at some point on their road trip. Last season, Kasper led all Red Wings skaters in hits with 186 in 81 games. Bringing him back into the fold either adds another heavy hitter to the team's top-six or an additional depth threat that can free up passing lanes for the scoring forwards.
Playing Kasper on the second line allows the Red Wings to move Andrew Copp to the third, playing into his strengths as a defensive center. When paired with Michael Rasmussen, the Red Wings have a lethal shutdown line. It's not a particularly exciting one from an offensive standpoint, but it's an important one, all the same.
Other help the Red Wings can consider
Best of all, there are depth solutions outside the organization, as well. Sooner or later, the Red Wings will receive a return on Dylan Larkin (or even Simon Edvinsson). Some of those pieces could be slotted in depth roles in Detroit, or they can help push players punching above their weight into proper roles.
They've got help within the org, as well.
Carter Bear, the Wings' 2025 first round pick, is a point-per-game in the AHL, with 10 points in 10 games. His teammate, Jesse Kiiskinen, is second in scoring among rookies in the AHL with 11 points in as many games. Both have shown they're more than capable at the AHL level and both could be substantial additions to a roster in need of some depth threats.
All these players need are opporutnities. Perhaps they'll get them this month.
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