Despite outshooting the New York Islanders 39-26, the Detroit Red Wings lost 5-2 in the Big Apple.
In his return to New York, Thomas Greiss finished with a .813 save percentage and was pulled after the second.
First period
The Islanders set the tone of the game immediately. Anthony Beauvillier scored just nine seconds in. The Red Wings clamped down a bit and started tilting the ice towards the offensive zone. However, it was New York that found the back of the net next, nabbing a goal with just under four minutes left in the first.
Second period
Holding onto a 2-0 lead after one, the Islanders settled down a bit. They were content letting the Red Wings have a bit more possession, focusing instead on keeping the game choppy and keep Detroit’s rhythm off.
The Islanders extended the lead just over halfway through the period, taking advantage of a Taro Hirose penalty. Finding themselves in a 3-0 hole, the Red Wings just couldn’t find the back of the net. Even a power play a few minutes later could not help Detroit score.
Third period
Greiss was pulled to start the third period, replaced by Alex Nedeljkovic. Unfortunately, the goalie change didn’t change much. Josh Bailey scored just over a minute into the period, extending the lead to 4-0.
The Red Wings finally found the back of the net with 6:35 left in the game, as Pius Suter tipped the puck at the front of the net. However, just 42 seconds later, the Islanders scored again to retake the four goal lead. The scoring barrage kept coming – with just under five minutes left in the period, Sam Gagner nabbed a goal to make it 5-2.
The game ended 5-2 in favor of the Islanders. Detroit is back in action this Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning.