The Red Wings have dropped out of playoff contention following a sudden and sharp decline in performance.
The Detroit Red Wings’ playoff aspirations have suddenly been put at risk due to a six-game losing streak, enabling the New York Islanders to surpass them in the standings.
Initially, the Red Wings seemed on track to reach the postseason for the first time since 2016, securing a top wild-card spot after defeating the Washington Capitals on February 27th. They held an eight-point lead over the New Jersey Devils, who were outside the playoff picture at the time. Meanwhile, the Islanders trailed by 10 points with a game in hand.
However, Detroit has failed to secure a single point in the two weeks since that victory, now tied with the Islanders at 72 points, with New York having a game in hand.
Their recent defeat came on Tuesday, suffering a 7-3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres, where they were outshot 39-24, including a 13-7 deficit in the first period and a 12-5 shortfall in the final frame.
Defenseman Jeff Petry acknowledged the team’s need for improvement, stating, “Obviously, we all know that the game we just played wasn’t what we need at this time of year, and especially with the circumstances that we have on hand.”
During this losing streak, the Red Wings have been outscored 32-11, with goaltender Alex Lyon seeing action in five of the six losses. Lyon, 31, has struggled in March, registering a 0-4-0 record with a 5.81 goals-against average and a .851 save percentage.
Despite their downturn, Detroit has played the past four games without captain Dylan Larkin, sidelined with a lower-body injury. General manager Steve Yzerman opted to make minimal moves at the trade deadline, expressing confidence in the team’s depth.
With 17 games remaining in the season, the Red Wings aim to end their playoff drought, starting with a home game against the Arizona Coyotes. A crucial matchup against the Islanders awaits them next Thursday, potentially pivotal in the playoff race.
