Red Wings Shuffle Lines

Coach Jeff Blashill after 3 straight losses and a couple bad performances, has shuffled the lines a bit. 

According to Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press, GM Ken Holland said Brad Richards is out with an upper-body injury and is headed back to Detroit for tests. While Defenseman Jakub Kindl is a healthy scratch and Brendan Smith will replace him. Kindl really didn't look good against the Oilers so this was expected. Hopefully these changes can spark this Wings team as they take on the Calgary Flames at 9:00pm tonight. 

Wings fan reaction (WFR) videos!

If you have a couple minutes and would like to check out some Red Wings related videos, check out my YouTube page! I'm doing Red Wings fan reaction videos after every game and will also be doing videos on any NHL topic that may come up during the season. Give me some feedback and I will do anything to make the videos better! 

Here is a link to the most recent video from the game against Edmonton:  https://youtu.be/T8DRrE9VgNs

Thank you! 

10 Random NHL Thoughts.

I think I'm going to make this a weekly thing, I'm not sure. But here are 10 random, possibly (probably) dumb thoughts on topics in the NHL. 

1. The Columbus Blue Jackets who are now 0-8-0 made a panic move and fired coach Todd Richards and replaced him with John Torterella. Who apparently benched star Ryan Johansen in his first game as coach. Oh, and they lost. Great start. 

2. The Anaheim Ducks who were favored by many to win the Stanley Cup, are now playing so badly, they are considering a coaching change. Potential Randy Carlyle reunion anyone? 

3. The Dallas Stars are doing exactly what most people thought they would do last year. Dominating. I pray for the opposing goalie who has to play against Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn. 

4.  The LA Kings are actually out scoring the Anaheim Ducks. I'm not kidding. 

5. I think the Habs forgot how to lose games. At a pretty nice 7-0-0 record they are the best team in the NHL. Oh, Carey Price is still really good too. 

6. Crosby went 5 games without a point and the hockey world went into a frenzy. Crosby then puts up a 3 point night and all is right in the world. 

7. Blake Wheeler is leading the Jets in scoring. Another top 10 draft pick the Bruins traded away. I guess to be good in the NHL, just hope the Bruins pick you in the top 10 and trade you. Works every time.

8. Ovechkin has scored 3 goals in 3 games. I guess he really can score goals in his sleep.... I'll see myself out. 

9. The Avs continue to struggle and they do have a nice little verteran with the last name Iginla who hasn't won a cup. Free up some cap space Ducks... 

10. The Chicago Blackhawks continue to find ways to replace traded talent. Artemi Panarin leads all NHL rookies in points with 7. A KHL signee, too. 

Red Wings- 3 Hurricanes- 5

(Photo from mlive.com) 

The Carolina Hurricanes defeat the Detrot Red Wings 5-3 for the Wings first loss of the season. This game can be summed up with one word: karma. The result of this game is basically what the result of last Saturday's game should have been. 

For the second time in consecutive meetings the Hurricanes just flat out outplayed the Wings. 55 seconds in, Hurricanes rookie Brock McGinn in his first career NHL game gets his first career NHL goal after getting his own rebound and putting it past Jimmy Howard. 

The Canes would eventually jump out to a 3-0 lead early in the second until the Wings (just like last Saturday) score two quick ones to make it 3-2 and put them right back in the game. The jolt of energy the Wings got from those goals just didn't really hold up and they eventually would lose 5-3. 

All night the Red Wings defense was soft, and out of position. Howard gave up a few rebounds that he probably shouldn't have but the D was just no where to he found. Brenden Smith had a terrible game as he just didn't look like he knew what he was doing out there. All and all a lackluster effort from the Wings gave them the result they probably deserved. Chalk it up to them potentially not taking the Canes very serious and looking past them to the Montreal Canadiens who are 5-0 for the first time in their long, historic franchise history. As stated above, the next taste of Wings action is tonight against the undefeated Canadiens at 7:00 pm. 

Franzen placed on short term IR

GM Ken Holland announced today that forward Johan Franzen has been placed on short term IR with post concussion symptoms. Franzen who has suffered at least 3 concussions during his playing career has been limited the last two seasons due to concussion issues. Last season Franzen talked about how bad his symptoms were saying that he would sleep 16-20 hours and his headaches were so bad he couldn't even play with his children. 

While this move now creates a roster spot for Darren Helm who is now doubtful for the weekend, it puts Franzen's career in a bit of doubt. Head injuries are a major topic these days and rightfully so. Franzen has said he wants his career to end on his terms. Who knows what this means for his future but hopefully this isn't how it ends for the Wings forward. Wings fans are certainly pulling for you, Mule. 

Who Wins the Calder Trophy?

In a year where it looks like the phrase "young mans game" really looks like it's coming into full effect with the likes of Buffalo's Jack Eichel, Edmonton's Connor McDavid, Detroit's Dylan Larkin and more taking the league by storm, the race for the Calder Trophy for Rookie of the Year may end up closer than ever before. Here are the cases for some of the leagues best rookies. 

Connor McDavid (EDM): Most likely everyone's odds on early favorite, McDavid although pointless in his first two games, McDavid has had an alright start. He's been one of Edmontons best players, he's show he has a high hockey IQ, and good speed. He's a bit weak in the face off department but that's something he can work on. As long as he continues to play as hard as he has in the first couple games, the points will eventually follow.

Jack Eichel (BUF): Most people's early choice for runner up, Eichel has been very impressive early on. He scored his first career goal in his first career game going top shelf and showing his shooting ability. His second goal was more of the same. Eichel's speed and shooting ability is certainly a deadly combination that can very easily get him some hardware.

Dylan Larkin (DET): A guy that wasn't expected to even be in the NHL this season, Larkin impressed so much in camp and preseason that the Wings management had no choice but to keep him on the NHL roster. So far, he hasn't disappointed. With two points in his NHL debut (a pretty nifty goal too) Larkin has 3 points in 2 games and leads the NHL in plus minus being a +6. Playing with the likes of Henrik Zetterberg can certainly give him an edge. He's shown his playmaking ability, speed, and the way the puck just seems to follow him around make a pretty good case for the Calder. 

Atremi Panarin (CHI): Another guy that not many expected to be in this conversation, Panarin has gotten off to an incredibly hot start. With 2 goals and 2 assists in 3 games, Panarin has shown the skill set he has. Having played in the KHL for 5 years where he put up good numbers, GM Stan Bowman was able to get him in a 2 year entry level deal. At 23 years of age he's a bit older than most rookies so maybe that also gives him a bit of an edge. Oh, and playing with that Patrick Kane guy helps too. 

I'm sure there are some guys I missed. Who do you think will win the Calder? Who do you think will even be in the race?

Helms Inevitable Return, Means Big Decisions Ahead

Red Wings forward Darren Helm looks as if he is ready to return to the lineup as in practice today, he is wearing a white jersey instead of a gray one (usually worn by the scratches). While great news for the Wings based on what he can bring to  the table, it also means that for him to play, they need to clear a roster spot. With the likes of Teemu Pulkkinen, Tomas  Jurco, Landon Ferraro, and Jokiam Andersson all needing to be put on waivers to be sent down, the Wings have a big decision to make very soon. They will either have to try and trade someone, or expose them to waivers and risk losing them for nothing. Who stays, who goes?

Teemu Pulkkinen: Pulkkinen who made his NHL debut last season and played decently well, was a guy that GM Ken Holland said would for sure be on the NHL roster come the beginning of the season. So far, Pulkkinen has 2 goals on the year which both came against Carolina. His goal scoring ability is his biggest strength. He has an incredible shot and certainly doesn't pass up a chance to shoot the puck. With his massive offensive potential, the Wings really should keep him and they probably will. 

Landon Ferraro: Son of NHL analyst Ray Ferraro, Landon is a great asset to have. His speed and defensive ability are his biggest strengths. Landon last year was on the NHL roster for a few games after being exposed to waivers and going unclaimed and played the entire series against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the playoffs. With his speed and defensive capabilities, the Wings shouldn't test waivers again for him. He would probably be picked up this time.

Joakim Andersson: Andersson really had his best season in 2013 when he played with Gus Nyquist and Damien Brunner. Since then he hasn't been quite as good but is still a very serviceable player. More of a defensive type, and a strong penalty killer, Andersson is another player the Red Wings should keep if they can.

Tomas Jurco: Quite possibly the guy on this list who people had the highest hopes for. A former 2nd round pick in 2011, Jurco was once thought to be a great offensive prospect. So far, his talent hasn't translated to the NHL very well. Last season he spent a lot of time in Babcocks' dog house and played only 36 games while putting up 15 points. Many believed that bringing Blashill in meant a chance for Jurco to get his game going with a fresh start yet he's been a healthy scratch for both games so far and it looks like that is going to continue. He most likely would be picked up on waivers so trade would be the better scenario but what value could the Wings get on the trade market for Jurco? If someone has to go, it should be Jurco. 

Red Wings- 4 Hurricanes- 3

In the second game of the season and the second of a back to back (the first of many back to backs this month alone) the Red Wings beat the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 in a game that on paper, you'd expect them to win. But, while the game was going? No. Just no. The Wings put up a measly 2 shots in the first period and were outshot 34-8 through 2 periods, which quickly turned this game into the Petr Mrazek show.

Someway somehow though, the Wings found a way to win in a game they had no business winning. Zetterberg, Abdelkader, and Teemu Pulkkinen were the goal scorers for Detroit with Pulkkinen getting a pair. 

Goaltender Petr Mrazek made 44 saves and stole this one for Detroit. He kept the Hurricanes off the board in the first period surviving an onslaught and a barrage of shots. 

Red Wings forward Henrik Zetterberg opened the scoring early in the 2nd on a nifty pass from Dylan Larkin. Later the 'Canes would score 2 unanswered goals to take a 2-1 lead into the third period. In steps Teemu Pulkkinen who scored on a giveaway by Hurricanes defenseman Ron Hainsey right infront of Cam Ward. Just a minute later, Tatar would take a shot from he point that Pulkkinen tipped in for a 3-2 lead. Later in the 3rd Abdelkader gets a feed from Henrik Zetterberg and stuffs it home for a 4-2 lead and the eventual game winner. The Hurricanes added a goal at the 19:57 mark of the third to make it 4-3. 

While not a solid team effort, a win is a win. It's a good sign when a team can win games that they shouldn't win and their goalie can steal them one every now and then. The next taste of Red Wings action comes Tuesday against the team who ended their season last year and division foe, the Tampa Bay Lightning. Hopefully before this, the team all chip in for a nice steak dinner for Mrazek, eh?

Mike Commodore has a bit of a problem with Mike Babcock..

Former Red Wings defenseman Mike Commodore seems like he has a bit of a problem with former Wings coach Mike Babcock. Commodore went on a massive Twitter rant and well... Just see for yourself..

Don't worry, it got even uglier...

I wonder what Babs did? 

Red Wings- 4 Maple Leafs- 0

(Photo credit to Fox Sports Detroit) 

Opening night of the 2015-16 NHL season probably couldn't have gone any better than it did for the Red Wings as they defeat the Toronto Maple Leafs 4-0 and beat Mike Babcock in his return to Joe Louis Arena. 

It all started from basically puck drop. Toronto took an early penalty and the Red Wings power play capitalized just a minute and fifteen seconds into the game as Franzen took a shot that rang of the post and Justin Abdelkader put home the rebound for the first of the season for the Wings. 

On the second goal, Dylan Larkin making his NHL debut, sent a great pass to Abdelkader who put it by Berniers' blocker for a 2-0 lead. Larkin with the assist got his first career NHL point.

At the beginning of the 2nd period, Zetterberg sent a pass to Larkin at the blue line who blows by the Leafs defender and goes top shelf to score his first career NHL goal, which chased Leaf goalie Bernier from the game.

Later in the 2nd, Larkin and Abdelkader found themselves on a 2 on 1 in which Abdelkader fired it past Reimer to get his 2nd career hat trick and put the Wings up 4-0 which would be more than enough as goalie Jimmy Howard was big when he needed to be and got a 22 save shutout.

During the first TV timeout the Red Wings had a tribute for former coach Mike Babcock which after the game said that "It was a nice thing to do. They obviously didn't need too since I don't coach there anymore.". 

With the win, coach Jeff Blashill gets his first win as head coach and the Red Wings get off to a great start as they looked pretty strong. Very fast and hard on the puck. They blocked shots very well, and were seemingly always there to backup a teammate if need be. Overall about as close to a perfect performance as you could possibly have. 

The next taste of Red Wings hockey comes tonight as they take on the Carolina Hurricanes at 7pm on FSD. Petr  Mrazek will be getting the start.   

Who will make the playoffs?

Since the season officially starts tonight, and the rosters for every club are pretty much clear, it's time to make predictions for a the playoff picture, and yes, a Stanley Cup winner. 

Eastern Conference: 

Atlantic:

Tampa Bay Lightning 

Detroit Red Wings 

Montreal Canadiens 

Metropolitan:

Washington Capitals

New York Rangers

New York Islanders

Wildcard:

Pittsburgh Penguins 

Columbus Blue Jackets 

Western Conference

Pacific Divison:

Anaheim Ducks 

LA Kings

San Jose Sharks

Central Division:

St. Louis Blues

Chicago Blackhawks

Dallas Stars

Wildcard: 

Calgary Flames

Nashville Predators 

Conference Finals: 

Anahiem Ducks vs LA Kings

Detroit Red Wings vs Washington Capitals

Stanley Cup Final: 

LA Kings vs Detroit Red Wings

Stanley Cup Winner: 

Detroit Red Wings

It's The Most Wonderful Time of The Year!

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Today is the opening night of the 2015-16 NHL season! After a ridiculously long offseason (well, only three months) the NHL will kickoff the season with a 4 game slate. The Toronto Maple Leafs kick it off against the Montreal Canadiens at 7 EST. Followed by, CHI vs NYR (8pm EST), CGY vs VAN (10pm EST), and then LA vs SJ (10:30 EST) to wrap it up. Chicago vs New York can be seen on NBCSN on Wednesday Night Rivarly night. What do you expect from the 15-16 season? This season is undoubtedly going to be fun one! 

The kid did it! Dylan Larkin makes opening night roster.

Forward and Red Wings top prospect Dylan Larkin has officially made the opening night NHL roster. Larkin at only 19 years of age becomes the first teenager to crack the Wings roster since Jiri Fischer in the 1999-2000 season. 

Larkin who really had to earn his spot since GM Ken Holland said he didn't want him up if he wasn't going to be in the top 6 forward group. After a tremendous preseason, Larkin obviously did enough to convince (with some help from Jeff Blashill) Holland to keep him in the NHL. 

Keeping him on the roster by no means guarantees he stays on the roster for the entire season. With the likes of Datsyuk, Helm and others on injured reserve, Larkin who is waiver exempt is certainly a candidate to be sent down to Grand Rapids when those players return. Until then, the kid gets to show what he's made of on a line with Zetterberg and Abdelkader come opening night Friday against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

2015-16 Season Preview: 5 Bold Predictions.

Excitement is certainly in the air with the season just days away (3 to be exact) most teams are now cutting down their rosters getting ready for opening night. Once the Wings make their final cuts, I will make a full post about that as well. Until then, how about some predictions? Here are 5 predictions for the NHL season.

1. The Tampa Bay Lightning will finish first in the Eastern Conference AND win the Presidents Trophy. 

With the offense they have (1st in the NHL last year) and the stellar play of goaltender Ben Bishop, who can actually match up with them and be expected to win? Certainly not very many. 

2. The Chicago Blackhawks will NOT make it past the 2nd round of the playoffs. 

The salary cap situation really impacted the Hawks this season (just like in 2010) in a big way. They were forced to trade away some very big pieces of their core. Forwards Patrick Sharp and Brandon Saad were both traded away, forward Brad Richards signed with the Red Wings and defenseman Johnny Oduya signed with the Dallas Stars. As a whole, the Blackhawks look very different.

3. Phil Kessel will score 45 goals. 

Phil Kessel was traded by the Toronto  Maple Leafs over the summer in a blockbuster deal. Kessel during his six seasons in Toronto was their leading scorer all six years. His lowest goal total (besides the lockout shortened season when he scored 20) was 25. On a horrifically bad team, he still managed to put up 25 goals and 36 assists for 61 points. The biggest argument was Kessel never had a true number one center the entire time he was in Toronto. Now he gets to play with Crosby, or Malkin. That's a bit better than Bozak right?

4. The Detroit Red Wings extend their playoff streak to 25. 

The Detroit Red Wings have made the playoffs for 24 consecutive seasons. The longest active streak in all 4 of the major pro sports. With the additions of Mike Green and Brad Richards, and the play of the rookies in the preseason, the Wings showed they have massive depth. New coach Jeff Blashill has been successful every where he's been and the team as a whole is better than last year. Why wouldn't it continue? 

5. The Florida Panthers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Dallas Stars make the playoffs. 

Three teams that were not in the playoffs last season, will be this year. Columbus ran into serious injury problems last season, and have now added Brandon Saad will almost certainly make a run for the postseason. The Dallas Stars were also another case of bad injury problems with the likes of Tyler Seguin going down. Seguin who has been phenomenal since being acquired by the Dallas Stars was arguably one of the best scorers in the entire league until he went out with an injury. While the Florida Panthers rode goaltender Roberto Luongo all the way a few points shy of making the playoffs, the young guns will be another year older and another year better. Defenseman Aaron Ekblad at only 19 years of age was absolutely wonderful and won the Calder Trophy for rookie of the year because of it.

NHL Expansion Talk

One of the big NHL news stories going around in the last few months is whether or not the NHL will expand. Currently the league sits at 30 teams with 16 in the East, and 14 in the West. You don't have to be great a math to realize that there is a lack of balance here. 

The NHL offered a chance for any potential city interested in possibly getting an NHL team a chance to apply for one. While multiple cities have rumored interest such as, Toronto, Las Vegas, Quebec, and Seattle, only two cities even applied. Quebec, and Las Vegas. 

Of the two cities that have applied, most people believe Vegas is basically a given to get a team. They would for sure be a Western Conference team, they have an arena that will be ready to go very soon, and the NHL wouldn't have competition from any of the 3 other major sports.

Now Quebec on the other hand, is a bit of a question mark. The Canaidan dollar has dropped to about 75 cents of a dollar in the U.S. The NHL wants $500 million dollars as a fee for each expansion team. That would cost the Quebec group  somewhere in the $600 million dollar price range in Canadian money. 

For obvious reasons, it would be really nice to see both places get a team. How exciting are new teams? The NHL hasn't expanded since 2000 and one of the more recent expansion teams actually ended up moving (Atlanta to Winnipeg). Having a team back in Quebec would immediately create a rivalry with the Montreal Canadiens, and bring hockey back to a very passionate hockey market. Not to mention, how cool does it sound to have the Quebec Nordiques back in the NHL? 

What are your thoughts? Do you want to see the NHL expand? If so, one team, or two teams? What would you name the potential franchises?