The Detroit Red Wings managed to string together two road wins in a row in 2025-26 after scoring a big win over the Los Angeles Kings. It was much-needed, considering how up-and-down, at best, they performed when not in their home arena. And it was a hard-fought win, considering the Kings' comeback surge late in the third period with the ageless Corey Perry leading the charge.
But Lucas Raymond and goaltender Cam Talbot thought otherwise, and won the game for the Wings, giving them 16 points on the season and tying them for first place in the Atlantic. As for the real winner in this game? It was Marco Kasper, who scored twice and enjoyed that much-needed breakout game after landing just one point in his first 10 contests.
Detroit will continue its road trip on Friday night when it skates across town into Anaheim and faces the Ducks. The road trip will then continue with outings against the San Jose Sharks and Vegas Golden Knights.
Detroit Red Wings getting help at forward from a veteran
Following Michael Brandsegg-Nygard's reassignment to Grand Rapids, you knew someone was going to the big club. That someone was Austin Watson, who has 528 games of NHL experience and brings a layer of physicality.
Watson saw time in 60 games in 2024-25 for the Griffins, racking up 42 points and 19 goals. In 2025-26, he made four appearances with two goals before the Wings recalled him to the big club.
Meanwhile, there is still no update on Carter Mazur, who was initially thought to be getting the nod over Watson. After learning that Mazur sustained a lower-body injury and would seek further evaluation, there is still no update on his condition. So, at least in the interim, expect Watson to spend time with the big club.
Red Wings could be interested in a former first-round pick
Keep an eye on Yegor Chinakhov, who the Red Wings could have an interest in acquiring, especially if injuries keep striking the forwards. Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic listed the Wings as one of a few teams inquiring the Columbus Blue Jackets about Chinakhov, who hasn't been happy with his standing in the organization.
Even if the Wings don't land Chinakhov, don't be surprised if they end up trading for a forward. Inquiring for Chinakhov's services sends a clear signal that Steve Yzerman is in the market to add at least another face to the team well before the trade deadline.
Should the Red Wings keep winning and playing solid hockey, it's no question that Yzerman will be looking for outside help. Chinakhov may not be a game-changing presence, but he will be a sound depth player who can put up respectable numbers when he gets the chance.