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Gains in net equal net gains for Wings in Vegas |
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Game Summary:
When Pietrangelo scored with 36 seconds left in the first, it felt like this was going to be another long night for the Wings. However, Husso locked it down and only let in 1 more shot, off a deflection as Vegas had pulled their goalie and were playing 6 on 5. Detroit needed a big night in net, and 2 goals on 34 shots is just what the doctor ordered.
Though Vegas dominated the shot box, Detroit’s possession in the third was fairly impressive. They were able to play a good bit of “keep away” as the Knights looked a bit gassed for the first bit of the third period. More than that, it seemed like the team was engaged and ready to go. Larkin’s take away that led to the first goal by Raymond was a nice, quick play. Kubalik’s one timer in tight on the power play was the kind of quick release your want to see on the off side. Veleno immediately credited his defenseman for a nice pass to lead him to a breakaway and a quick wrist shot far side. It was just a nice game to see the team functioning.
Snapping the current skid was incredibly important. Not seeing 4 or more on the opposition’s goal total was also important. In truth, Detroit needed the net to feel solid. There were a lot of quick reversal plays behind the net and the defensemen seemed aware of who was available. Though a late night, a pleasant night to be sure. In 2 days the Wings return to LCA for a contest against the Flyers. Philadelphia sits right next to Detroit in the standings as I write this and the franchise identifies as having a physical edge to their play.
I credit the team for coming out with their heads up, ready for the puck to drop. There have been plenty of discouraging moments. These athletes, win or lose, have to hit the reset button fairly quickly. We’re also nearing the point of the season where deals are going to be made. With cap space and players who may want a glimpse of the post season, Yzerman could well collect some picks and/or players to shape the coming year’s roster.
I do hope you got to enjoy this, even if you just catch the highlight reel in the morning. This game had some nice glimpses of what some of these young players have the ability to become.
First Period Red Wings goals:
Larkin had a nice takeaway in the O zone, skated across the ice and made a nice pass to Raymond who was gliding toward the net with his stick on the ice for a nice tip in at 2:45. 1-0
With 36 seconds left, Vegas tied it up. 1-1
Shots: 10-8 VGK
Score: 1-1
Second Period Red Wings goals:
Wings grab the 1 goal lead again at 2:37 as Kubalik takes a slap pass from Sundqvist on the power play and rips it toward the net without hesitation. Hronek with some impressive skating and handling grabs 2nd assist. 2-1
Veleno added to the lead at 10:26 as he took a beautiful pass from Oesterle as he broke into the offensive zone and made a nice wrist shot far side. A simple play set up with a really good pass at the blue line. Berggren with the 2nd assist. 3-1
Shots: 21-20 VGK
Score: 3-1 DET
Third Period Red Wings goals:
With the goalie pulled, VGK scored at 19:17 after Wings failed to score into an empty net. 3-2
Shots 34-25 VGK
Score: 3-2 DET
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