Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Red Wings secured a victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs with a 4-2 win at Little Caesars Arena. Jeff Petry, a 37-year-old defenseman, played a crucial role by scoring two goals, marking his first multi-goal game of the season. Petry emphasized the importance of starting strong before the Christmas break, stating, “We set a goal. Our goal was to make sure that we start off right with a win tonight.”

Ville Husso, in his seventh start of the season for Detroit, made 23 saves and celebrated his first NHL win since December 12, 2023. On the other side, Joseph Woll stopped 22 shots for Toronto.

The game saw Detroit taking an early lead with Petry's wrist shot in the first period. A potential goal by Mitch Marner was overturned due to an offsides challenge successfully made by Detroit. Head coach Derek Lalonde credited the video team for their decisive call.

Toronto tied the game with Auston Matthews scoring on a power play in the second period. However, Moritz Seider restored Detroit's lead shortly before the end of the second period with his fourth goal of the season.

Matthew Knies scored for Toronto early in the third period to level the score again. Petry responded quickly with another goal just 44 seconds later to give Detroit a 3-2 advantage. Lucas Raymond sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the final seconds.

Marco Kasper missed the game due to illness. Reflecting on this performance, Lalonde remarked on its significance: “A huge win... It’s a win against a good team.” The Red Wings are set to face Philadelphia Flyers next at home.