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Update - Lagesson recalled to Detroit
17 games in and the Red Wings have seen what seems like a regression in the defensive structure that was supposed to be last summer’s priority compounded with a loss in scoring. The top goal scoring is coming from Larkin (10), Debrincat (7), and Copp (5). No other player on this list has more than 3.
Raymond is tied in points with Debrincat, but the winger only has 2 goals. His end of the year tear last year of course shows a player who can score in bunches. Unfortunately too many players just aren’t finding their scoring. 4 defenseman with 11 or more games have 0 goals, 1 point for Holl (11 games) and 2 points apiece for Chiarot, Gustafsson and Petry.
The drop off in contributions feels painful. The Power Play has picked up, the Penalty Kill is embarrassing. The numbers for tonight’s contest play out like this:
Power Play: DET 29.8% (4th). SJ 16.9% (24th)
PK: DET 66% (31st). SJ 82.1% (10th)
Faceoff: DET 51.3% (12th). SJ 49.8% (20th)
Goals for: DET 2.47(28th). SJ 2.37 (31st)
GA/GP: DET 3.24 (22nd). SJ 3.37(24th)
Similar to Anaheim, the teams match up fairly closely (far too close to the bottom) at even strength and a special teams game with Detroit on the advantage could be the difference maker.
Edvinsson is expected back after being out of action against L.A., and the team will have a chance to see Walman after the Dman missed 5 games with some combination of team suspension and injury. The trade that still just doesn’t sit with most of you as anything close to reasonable.
Again, it’s increasingly difficult to attach expectations with what the team has put together since the 3rd period in Anaheim on this trip. At just over a week out from Thanksgiving the team is 7th in the division and 26th in the league. The opportunity for a meaningful addition in terms of this season’s impact seems to be a dwindling prospect.
We don’t know the conversations being had, just what the team is putting together on the ice. Unless there’s a message that’s not sinking in it feels like a failed strategy compounded with subpar individual performances. While this isn’t going to be lost on the team, coaches, office or ownership it’s difficult to get a sense of urgency or strong motivation. Last year’s excitement has stagnated for many fans. It’s on the team to try and rekindle that energy.
Detroit Red Wings Blogger • 
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