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It seems fair to describe the task to get to the post season as “steep”. The coaching change brought a massive amount of energy back to the fan base and the post 4 Nations performance of the team seems to have sucked the life out of the online fan base. The team is 3–7-0 in their last 10 after a thrilling 17-5-2 start under coach McLellan, and fans are back to the debates that were being had in December. At least, those who are still chiming in.

Detroit seemed to be lacking in discipline, then a very well played game in Ottawa that saw a solid goalie shut it down. The win against Buffalo had some sloppy moments, but was a welcome boost. Then, period 2 against Carolina. A crossbar away from tying, even after being outplayed for long stretches. It seems there are fans who have already checked out, came back after the Buffalo win, then were shut down by the loss to Carolina. This is a fan base hungry for that next step.

The best part of the past stretch has been Kasper’s move to the line with Kane and Debrincat. Those three have found something special but unfortunately Soderblom is a half step behind his linemates of Larkin and Raymond. He’s had good looks, but it’s been a step backward for that line. The team needs a huge effort and the fans need a win. A lot of this circles around the D zone.

Vegas now has the 2nd best power play in the league with Detroit at #3. As for PK, Vegas at 22nd and Detroit at 32nd. By the numbers, this is Vegas’s game to lose. That means Detroit has to be aggressive, keep the puck out of the zone and get shots on net. Stay out of the penalty box. Let me know what you hope to see as Detroit faces “must win” games for the rest of the season.

Just a quick note. on the AHL trade front, Detroit has sent Tory Dello from Grand Rapids to the Devils organization for future considerations. That return is getting a bit worrisome. On the plus side, the defensive prospects that are coming in and developing seem to have stepped up and made getting minutes tougher. Exactly what you want to see.

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