The Detroit Red Wings need a good month if they want to stay in the playoff race. Their playoff ambitions are simply that. They need a lot of points this month to try to get back into the hunt. Currently, the Red Wings will be on the outside looking in come spring.
But, in the spirit of positivity, it’s worth remembering how significant the last three games were. Despite defeating three clubs outside their division, the Detroit Red Wings embarked on a tough road trip to the other side of the country. It’s a road trip that can cause chaos for any club, not just the Red Wings.
The constant travel and time changes that occur throughout an NHL player’s season can be taxing on both the body and psyche. Even the top teams might have difficulty playing good hockey when they travel west. It can lead to slow starts and poor performances as teams travel across the country.
It’s likely what Ducks, Sharks, and Kings supporters will say when they travel east for a series of games. However, Detroit’s three victories, despite coming against some weaker opponents, were significant. These were games the Red Wings needed to win.
Three games and six points may not be enough to preserve the season, but after getting hammered in December, the Red Wings need to improve this month. Detroit is 3-0 this month and made a statement with a three-game sweep of the California teams.
Detroit also takes a vacation after returning from their road trip. They’re off until Thursday. However, their next few games will be more difficult. The Edmonton Oilers visit town on Thursday, with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl hoping to keep their Pacific Division title hopes alive. Then there’s another showdown with the Kings, this time at home.
Following that, they face divisional and conference opponents who will be difficult to beat. Detroit will need to find a way to steal a few of wins and gain some points from teams like Tampa Bay and Toronto.
