Red Wings in ‘really good spot’ ahead of big night in Chicago.
Detroit Red Wings players celebrate after the third period against the St. Louis Blues on Saturday. (Photo by Paul Sancya, AP).
DETROIT — The Detroit Red Wings’ quick start, explosive outburst, and steady performance until the final buzzer made for a delightful day Saturday in a 6-1 victory over the St. Louis Blues.
They’re looking forward to a wonderful night in Chicago on Sunday, when two Blackhawks legends will be honoured.
Chris Chelios, a former Red Wings defenceman, will have his number 7 retired during a pregame ceremony. Then, Patrick Kane will play his debut game at the United Centre after being dealt to the Rangers last season and later joining Detroit in November.
Coach Derek Lalonde said he is “selfishly ecstatic” about the game (7 p.m. at Bally Sports Detroit).
“It’s such an honour to be a head coach in this league; you rarely get nights and moments like that,” he remarked. “Cheli is certainly retiring (his number), and Patrick is going home. I’m going to be a really eager spectator on the bench. We’ll chat with the men. Manage our emotions and stay focused. We will need every point throughout the course of 82 games. As exciting as tomorrow will be, it is also an opportunity to earn some points. We must play like such.”
Alex DeBrincat, a former Blackhawk who returned to Chicago last season while playing for Ottawa, stated that it will be “a fun game for everyone.”
“For Kaner to go back, he’s given them so much to cheer about and so many memories,” he said. “I’m sure the crowd will be really loud and I’ve heard that place loud a couple of times, but this might top it all.”
Little Caesars Arena was also packed, especially when the Red Wings scored three goals in the first six minutes to lead 4-0 after the first period. DeBrincat ended with two goals and an assist.
The Red Wings (31-21-6, 68 points) have won four consecutive games and are 14-4-2 since January 1.
“We’re in a stretch of playing some really good hockey,” Lalonde remarked in an interview. “I believe it is more important to capitalise on your top performance. And we are doing it now. There will be some ups and downs ahead, but we are in a really excellent position right now. Hopefully, we can continue riding this.”
It was pointed out to Lalonde that Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson had sounded the usual Joe Louis Arena goal horn before the game.
“It was good karma there,” Lalonde stated. “We can probably credit the Lions for about 6-8 points this year. I’ve got to thank them.
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