Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Red Wings secured a 2-1 victory against the Florida Panthers on home ice at the Little Caesars Arena. This game was the final of their multi-game homestand in the 2024-25 regular season. The win keeps the Red Wings in the hunt for the Eastern Conference's second Wild-Card spot as they point in four consecutive games.

Alex DeBrincat, who scored the game's opening goal, commented on the team's performance, saying, "I think we’re doing a pretty good job of playing with the lead.” He added that despite occasional ups and downs during the season, the team still has room for improvement.

The Red Wings, now holding a record of 36-33-7 with 79 points, remain six points behind the Montreal Canadiens, who currently occupy the second Wild-Card spot. The Panthers, who are at 44-29-4, experienced a robust defense from the Red Wings' goalie Cam Talbot, who made 30 key saves.

Detroit head coach Todd McLellan praised Talbot, stating, "The team is very confident in him right now and that’s a real good thing to have at this time of the year.” Talbot's performance has been consistent, boasting a 3-0-1 record in his last four appearances.

DeBrincat scored during a power play at 4:37 of the second period, assisted by Lucas Raymond and Patrick Kane. This marked DeBrincat's 35th goal of the season, a milestone not achieved by a Red Wings player since Marian Hossa's 40 goals in the 2008-09 season. DeBrincat mentioned, “This year, I’m just trying to do a better job of being consistent."

J.T. Compher extended the lead to 2-0 with a quick snap shot from the left face-off circle, assisted by Marco Kasper and Jeff Petry. Compher's determination on the ice impressed McLellan, who noted, "He’s skating, involved and leading instead of trailing in a shift."

The Panthers responded with a late-game goal from Anton Lundell, but a crucial glove save from Talbot ensured the victory for Detroit. Talbot remarked, “I lost sight of the puck for a second...I’m trying to get as much of my body as I can to the other side of the net and make the save.”

Looking forward, the Red Wings are set for a key road trip, starting with a game against the Montreal Canadiens. DeBrincat expressed optimism despite some areas for improvement, saying, “We were pretty good, a little slow to start...two points are two points.” Talbot spoke on his leadership style, explaining, "I’m more of a lead by example type of guy."

Regarding their playoff aspirations, Talbot acknowledged, "We know that we need help right now...I’d be lying if I said we’re not looking.”