What's Happening?
The Detroit Red Wings are set to face the St. Louis Blues in a home-and-home series starting Saturday. The Red Wings are coming off two consecutive losses, including a 7-2 defeat by the New York Islanders.
Detroit's captain, Dylan Larkin, emphasized the need for better execution and puck management, which has been a recurring issue since their season opener loss to Montreal. Coach Todd McLellan highlighted the team's struggles with puck management leading to opposition scoring opportunities. The Red Wings will embark on a five-game road trip after Saturday's game, with Larkin carrying an eight-game point streak into the match.
Why It's Important?
Effective puck management is crucial for the Red Wings as they aim to recover from recent losses and maintain their competitive edge. The team's ability to manage the puck will impact their performance in upcoming games, especially as they face the Blues, who have also experienced recent losses. Improved puck management could lead to better defensive plays and fewer scoring opportunities for opponents, which is vital for the Red Wings to regain momentum and confidence. The outcome of these games could influence their standings and playoff prospects.
What's Next?
Following the game against the Blues, the Red Wings will begin a five-game road trip, starting with a rematch in St. Louis. The team will need to address their puck management issues to improve their performance on the road. The return of Patrick Kane from injury could bolster the team's lineup, providing additional offensive capabilities. The Blues, having lost their last two games, will also be looking to bounce back, making the upcoming matches critical for both teams.
