Detroit put together a very good effort after a disappointing loss to Anaheim two nights ago. For the first two periods, The Wings carried a lot of the play. Carey Price played extremely well in the loss. Jonathan Bernier had a strong outing for the Wings.

Of note, Anthony Mantha and Tyler Bertuzzi both scored (along with Helm and Glendening added an empty net goal). Dylan Larkin is the only player with at least a point in every game, garnering an assist. The three headed beast of LAR-MAN-ZZI struck again. That line has scored 10 goals in 4 games. Incredible effort each night. One item of note for this line, there are many shifts in the Ozone where all three of those forwards and both defensemen get a touch on the puck. I noted the same in the Anaheim game. They move the puck quickly, get into position, and are comfortable getting it to the blue line. Dekeyser had some really strong offensive plays, one of which led to the Helm goal.

I was certain this would end in a 4-3 overtime loss. Credit to Datsyuks_dangle, who predicted a 5-2 Wings win. Very close.

Looking at Montreal, it is clear that Carey Price is driving this machine. If the Wings dumped the puck in for a change, Price would cut it off and send it down the ice. He consistently saves his defensemen 20-40 feet of skating and allows the forwards to play a half ice attack. That is part of what makes them so dangerous. Forwards change quickly at the zone entrance and are ready to fly in. The Montreal forecheck is powerful, quick and potent. However, if Price struggles or gets hurt, that system will fall apart quickly.

For the Red Wings, the effort is palpable. There were several plays where Hirose and Athanasiou came close to connecting for a goal. Abdelkader, Erne and Filppula all played well. Getting a goal from Helm was a plus. We need a lot more from the other three lines but tonight I saw the chances coming from the effort.

I enjoyed the game. Very consistent effort and some really fun play from both teams. I’m not sure how the Wings get so many quality shots against a Defensive squad led by Shea Weber. It was impressive to see.

The next test is against Toronto, who got handled badly by Tampa Bay tonight 7-3. A high skilled and dangerous team is going to be in a very bad mood. This one could be painful to watch.

For now, the Red Wings sit 3-1 at a time when i thought they’d be overwhelmed. Impressive start for this squad.

Join the Discussion: » 24 Comments » Post New Comment

» Wings vs. Bruins pregame - the rebuild vs the reload

» Interview with former Griffin and Wing, GR assistant coach Brian Lashoff

» Wings work their way to a win on Datsyuk’s night.

» Wings face Islanders looking to stop the skid, strong power play could help

» Interview with Griffins head coach Dan Watson - the difference