After a rough start to the current NHL season, the Detroit Red Wings have made a strong comeback and are now in playoff contention. Since hiring Todd McLellan as head coach on December 26, replacing Derek Lalonde, the Red Wings have gone 8-2-0. This strong stretch has brought them just three points behind the Boston Bruins for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.
The Red Wings’ recent success is certainly impressive, and it has made them relevant in the playoff race. However, before anyone gets too excited, it’s important to look at the tough road ahead for Detroit and determine whether they can keep up with the other teams fighting for the same playoff spot.
The Red Wings’ upcoming schedule will be challenging. In their next 12 games, they will face several strong teams that are also in the playoff race, including the Tampa Bay Lightning (three times), Dallas, Philadelphia, Montreal, Los Angeles, Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, Seattle, and Minnesota.
Out of these 12 games, only a few seem like games Detroit should win, such as matches against the Flyers and Kraken. But, aside from those, the Red Wings will be up against talented and determined teams. Additionally, seven of those 12 games will be away games, which is concerning considering Detroit’s 9-8-2 road record so far this season.
The road ahead will be difficult for the Red Wings. Now that they are close to earning a playoff spot, Detroit’s general manager Steve Yzerman needs to consider being a buyer at the NHL trade deadline on March 7. With approximately $9.15 million in salary cap space by that time, the Red Wings have enough room to make a move to strengthen their team, particularly their defense.
One potential option for the Red Wings could be Montreal’s David Savard, a veteran defenseman who might be available if the Canadiens fall out of playoff contention. However, Montreal is aiming for the playoffs, so Savard may not be easy to acquire. Another option could be San Jose’s Mario Ferraro, who is likely to be on the trade block.
Ferraro has a $3.25 million salary that runs through the 2025-26 season, meaning he’s not just a rental. He could provide the Red Wings with a solid defenseman who can play 20 minutes per game at a high level.
Regardless of what moves Yzerman makes, the Red Wings need to take full advantage of their recent hot streak and secure a playoff spot for the first time in nine years. They’ve come too far to fall short now, and it’s up to Yzerman to make the right decisions to help his team reach the postseason.
Detroit can’t waste the opportunity their recent success has given them. The next few games will determine if this Red Wings team is a true contender for a playoff spot or just a team stuck in the middle — not bad enough to get a top draft pick, but not good enough to make the playoffs.
There’s no room for mistakes, and only if the Red Wings continue their strong play will they keep their playoff hopes alive.
The NHL is a high-pressure environment, and now the Red Wings must show they can perform when it counts. If they miss out on the playoffs, there may be significant changes next summer. Missing the postseason would reflect poorly on Yzerman’s plan for the team. The pressure is on, and how the Red Wings handle it will shape the team’s direction for the near and distant future.
