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Griffins win big, Wings face Vancouver |
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Grand Rapids won their season opener against Rockford 6-1. 12 different players found their way onto the scoresheet and Pickard turned away 23 of 24 shots. Veleno opened the scoring, and was skating like a man on a mission. Tyutyayev had 2 assists, and is a lot of fun to watch. The broadcasters kept remarking about his light frame (146 lbs) and that a few pounds would enhance his game. He was able to skate right into the fray and muck it up a bit. Dennis Yan, a skater I didn’t know much about at camp, really looks good sometimes. I’m looking forward to seeing him more as the season progresses.
Detroit’s opening night was probably the most emotional roller coaster ride that team has provided in a long time. Unfortunately, Larkin’s injury/ejection/suspension and Tampa’s comeback overshadowed a lot of excitement. Bertuzzi was unreal, and his 4 point performance had the place jumping. It’s hard to believe that was just his 2nd time on the ice with competition since January. Ned got his first taste of what could be a long season. The rebuild is hitting a new stride. More scoring and ability but costly mistakes that have to be addressed.
The team will be without Larkin today, and possibly for a bit longer. The severity of his injury from the Joseph hit still isn’t clear. Hopefully, the recovery will be quick.
I can’t really make any predictions right now. There are young players who’ve only played 1 game, lines that are still getting to know each other, and Larkin’s presence will be missed. Vancouver is a club with a lot going for them. Until this iteration of the Red Wings really have a chance to gel and get used to each other and the systems, it’s hard to say what we’ll see when they hit the ice. Starting on time, avoiding penalties and solid defensive zone coverage will all go a long way moving forward.
Detroit Red Wings Blogger • 
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