Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Red Wings are set to face the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center on Saturday afternoon. The game marks the first of a weekend back-to-back for Detroit, who are seeking their fourth consecutive victory. The puck drop is scheduled for 1 p.m., with coverage available on FanDuel Sports Network Detroit and the Red Wings Radio Network.

Detroit enters the matchup with a record of 4-3-0, totaling eight points in the standings. They recently defeated the New Jersey Devils 5-3, with significant contributions from Patrick Kane, Alex DeBrincat, and Lucas Raymond. Goalie Cam Talbot also played a key role by making 37 saves.

Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde noted, "[Thursday] was a game where we gutted it out on special teams and goaltending." Captain Dylan Larkin emphasized the importance of playing with emotion against challenging opponents. He remarked that emotion can manifest as "a big hit, a blocked shot or a big save."

Following Saturday's game in Buffalo, Detroit will host the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday and then welcome the undefeated Winnipeg Jets next Wednesday.

Larkin commented on the team's early-season schedule: "We feel good about the spot we’re in right now, but there’s more. There’s room for improvement." He also stressed the value of gaining momentum early in the season: "It’s something that’s not talked about a lot, but just keep accumulating points."

Buffalo has won its last two games, including a recent victory over Dallas Stars. Alex Tuch leads their scoring efforts this season.

For Saturday's game, J.T. Compher remains questionable due to illness. Coach Lalonde mentioned they might opt for 11 forwards and seven defensemen again if necessary. Tyler Motte will be unavailable due to an upper body injury but is considered day-to-day.