MLive’s Ansar Khan discusses possible divisional realignments for the 2020-2021 season as they might affect the Red Wings this morning, and Khan’s bottom line as to what the divisional scenarios might involve is blunt:
One proposed playoff format would see the top four teams in each division qualify and play each other in the first two rounds, which would reduce travel and result in no border crossing until the conference finals.
But reality for the Red Wings is it doesn’t matter what the divisions look like, they are not going to compete for a playoff spot in 2021. They figure to be better, following a slew of offseason changes that should improve them in all areas and some internal growth. But they were 42 points out of the final playoff spot when the season paused on March 11 and that margin probably would have widened had the schedule been completed.
They can’t possibly erase that deficit in one season, regardless of the format that is implemented.
The hope for the Red Wings is they show significant progress from their 17-49-5 record and are competitive in more games. Most of all, it is vital for their young players to continue showing progress. That would be a big boost for the rebuild.
