Panthers at Red Wings: Gameday Updates, Keys to the Game

Power Play Units:

1. Tatar-Zetterberg-Nyquist, Abdelkader (net front), Green
2. Sheahan-Nielsen-Larkin, Helm (net front), Sproul

Updates:

Petr Mrazek is starting, Jimmy Howard is the backup.

Ott suspension watch is over:

Sproul is out and Ouellet is in:

On the Vanek injury:

Keys to the Game:

Learn from last night’s mistakes

The Bruins and Panthers are entirely different beasts to tame this season, but after last night’s sloppy performance (from both teams), the Wings need to focus on tightening up and simplifying their game. Minimize those pesky turnovers and shoooooooot the puck when you have the chance.

@helmerroids

Played last night vs. Played last night and sleep-deprived

Games in which both teams are on the second night of a back-to-back are notorious for being crappy games. In this case, both teams lost their previous game and will be looking for redemption against a division rival. The Red Wings have seemed more than happy to play the role of the losing team in these situations over the last few seasons. Take that narrative by the throat and pile-drive it into the ice.

Get frustrated with yourselves, Wings!

Channeling frustration with yourself in the correct manner is an excellent motivator to do better. This is a practice that falls on the shoulders of those on the ice and behind the bench. Jeff Blashill needs to coax those feelings into performance and mentality changes in his players, who in turn need to keep each other supported but responsible. Don’t let the difficult games or unlucky streaks build up so much pressure that you can’t get out from under it. Recognize the issues, know how to fix them, and go out there and do it. You’re a team for a reason.

Fun Facts!

• The Red Wings are 19-7-5-6 (W-L-T-OTL) in the regular season against the Panthers.
• Petr Mrazek is 2-2-1 in 5 career starts against Florida with a .927 SV% and 2.41 GAA.
• My cat is better than the Panthers.