The Detroit Red Wings looked like they might have finally hit the wall after being obliterated by Nashville 7-1 on Thursday. No would have been surprised if Columbus made quick work of them in the weekend back to back series. Instead, the opposite happened.
The Red Wings swept the series, winning 3-1 on Saturday and then 4-1 Sunday. The team looked rejuvenated and played possibly their best hockey of the season. Columbus is knocking on the playoff door, and the Red Wings all but slammed it in their face.
It was refreshing to see.
Red Wings Roster Movement
So this happened Monday morning:
Seeing Smith come up is awesome, as he’s had a great run lately in Grand Rapids and was absolutely deserving of another shot in Detroit. Mathias Brome is another story. What started out with such promise seemed to fall apart when he was absolutely snakebitten when it came to goal scoring. His confidence seemed to suffer and he found himself out of the lineup before long. Here’s hoping he can get a boost in Grand Rapids where minutes will be given and progress should follow.
As for Dennis Cholowski, I honestly really don’t know. More and more it feels like the writing is on the wall, but I hope for him, too, the time in Grand Rapids pays off.
Red Wings Goaltending Takes a Turn
After Thomas Greiss was yanked in the aforementioned blowout Thursday evening, Calvin Pickard took over the rest of the game and then was named the starter for Saturday’s game. He didn’t disappoint, earning his first win this season and then following it up with another on Sunday. Greiss was signed to share the load with Bernier, and what we’re seeing now is Pickard usurp Greiss’ role.
Greiss’ numbers have suffered this season, giving head coach Jeff Blashill more than enough reason to have him sit and try to maybe center himself after what’s been a tough year and acclimation after having a better set of circumstances in New York.
Red Wings Trade Rumors
Alex took at look at what Bobby Ryan might get if he’s dealt to the Maple Leafs while I tried to see if indeed Luke Glendening heads to the Oilers as rumored, if they could actually get more than a fourth round pick by being creative.
We’ll be looking at potential suitors for other Red Wings trades this week and next. I believe that Yzrerman will make some moves prior to the deadline day because of some of the Covid Protcols in place.
Red Wings Week Ahead
It’s another trip to Florida and a chance to see which Red Wings squad shows up in both Miami and Tampa. The Panthers and Lightning are both within a point of each other so it’ll be an interesting set of games against both teams trying to solidify footing at the top of the standings.
Tuesday: at Florida 7pm EST
Thursday: at Florida 7pm EST
Saturday: at Tampa Bay 12 pm EST
Sunday: at Tampa Bay 12 pm EST