The Detroit Red Wings, despite a resurgent season, could still miss the playoffs.
That statement is not hyperbole. It’s a reality that the club has to come to grips with. The losses of Dylan Larkin and Andrew Copp have done little to help the Wings’ cause. If anything, two significant injuries such as these have tested the team’s resolve.
That said, the Red Wings are far from out of the woods. The club is currently tied with the Boston Bruins in the Eastern Conference wild card chase. While both teams have 80 points, the Bruins technically get the first wild card spot as they have one more regulation win.
Detroit, meanwhile, sits in the second wild card spot. And guess what, the Columbus Blue Jackets are right there, nipping at the Red Wings’ heels. The Blue Jackets are one point out, with a game in hand. The Ottawa Senators are also within striking distance, three behind. The Sens also have a game in hand.
While it might be a convenient excuse to blame injuries for the Red Wings’ recent slide, their history of March slides are well-known. This season, the team has lived up to that reputation. The Wings are 3-5-2 in their last 10. The 3-2 overtime loss to the Dallas Stars on Saturday night didn’t help. While the Wings managed a point, the club just can’t afford to let any more points go.
Red Wings to face endless scrutiny if they fail to make playoffs
There’s no question that this is a big season for the Red Wings. The club is finally close to ending its playoff drought. Most importantly, getting over the hump would be the ultimate validation for the Yzerplan.
As a result, there is much more on the line than just a playoff appearance. Making it would validate the organization’s entire rebuild process. It would send the right message to fans. The unconditional patience and support have finally begun to pay off.
But if the Wings fade down the stretch, the offseason scrutiny could be just too much for the organization to handle. The Yzerplan could be blown into smithereens. In particular, Steve Yzerman’s deadline strategy will be dissected from top to bottom.
Additionally, the failed trades for Quinn Hughes, Rasmus Andersson, and Vincent Trocheck will become magnified. The criticism could hit a new gear as fans and the media demand answers for the Red Wings’ shortcomings.
It’ll just be easier for everyone if the Red Wings make the playoffs. Even a first-round exit would be a tolerable outcome. The idea is to get past the mental barrier that has become March slides.
It remains to be seen if the Wings can find another gear. They’ll hit the ice on Monday night against the Calgary Flames. A victory on home ice will go a long way towards helping the team get back on the right track and sail into the playoffs.