Happy almost Thanksgiving, Wingnuts! And to our friends in Canada, happy Wednesday. 🙂Â
Usually after a game like the Red Wings had against the Devils, I’d be a little pissed, because that was a winnable game. I’m not. That game was a moral victory for me, because the team showed some fight. The defense is still an issue, and will probably remain that way for the rest of the season barring any moves. I’d really like to see this team respond a little nastier when one of its star players is targeted. Does that mean we need an enforcer? No, don’t think so. I think the “bigger” guys need to start acting like the “bigger” guys. Won’t name any names, but I’m sure you can use your imagination. Unrelated, but sort of related (?), Ben Chiarot was fined $5k for butt-ending Simon Nemec. Worth it, probably.
Still, to Detroit’s credit, they are scrappier this year than they have been in the past. Todd has clearly flipped a switch somewhere. Consider me cautiously optimistic about this team.
The Red Wings host Nashville tonight. That’s a game they should have no problem winning. A win would put Detroit at 14-9-1, and potentially back into first place in the Atlantic, pending other outcomes around the NHL tonight. Entering Thanksgiving with that in mind, this team should be primed for a postseason berth. Problem is, the Eastern Conference is a gosh damn meatgrinder and one small losing streak puts you outside of the bubble. This is probably a good time for Steve Yzerman to assess the trade market and see what kind of upgrades he can make to his roster. He’s got the bankroll for it, and there are some rumors that teams like Vancouver are preparing to blow it up… But how many times have we heard that before? bahumbug.
Elsewhere, the Grand Rapids Griffins just keep beating up on teams. The Red Wings affiliate absolutely doused the Texas Stars last night in a 10-1 road win. That’s the largest margin of victory for the Griffins in a regular season game ever. Dominik Shine and Eduard Tralmaks both earned a hat-trick, and Antti Tuomisto posted a four-point game. This was also Sebastian Cossa’s 50th win as a Griffin. Even Justin Holl scored a goal (!!!), his first as a Griffin. Check the highlights here.
Everyone has different opinions, but I think that starting your season with a 13-1-0-1 record is pretty good!!
I don’t have much else to include today. Just want to send warm wishes and regards to all of you who are celebrating the holiday this week. A little extra love to those who will be spending the holiday alone or at work. Be kind to yourself, and thank you for being you.
