Among the Detroit News’s Ted Kulfan’s Friday notes is this interesting passage:
“[Thursday’s loss] was a tough one,” captain Dylan Larkin told reporters. “Really tough to lose in that fashion and to get zero points. The mindset in our room is we got to get two points, start winning hockey games and getting on a roll here. We’ve been in this position before. I don’t think there’s anyone coming in to save the day.”
There were definitely positives Thursday from the Wings’ perspective.
Husso put together his second real good start, allowing only four goals in the process. The Wings’ penalty kill, an issue the entire season, killed all five Ottawa power plays (one of the best units in the NHL). And with DeBrincat’s goal, the Wings’ power play continued its impressive run.
But, ultimately, one mismanaged play led to a tough defeat. Though, in the obscenely tightly bunched Eastern Conference, the Wings Friday were only three points behind the final wild-card spot.
Somehow, the Wings need to keep driving forward.
“We have to find it from within and show what we’re capable of,” Larkin told reporters. “We have a tough matchup at home on Saturday (against Colorado), then we’re back on the road and then we’re at home until Christmas. It’s time to start playing some hockey and not just set the bar for an overtime loss or getting one point.”
