In a thrilling showdown at Little Caesars Arena, Alex DeBrincat capitalized on a costly mistake by Montreal Canadiens defenseman Mike Matheson. With just over three minutes left in regulation, DeBrincat seized the opportunity, netting a backhander past Jakub Dobes to break a 1-1 deadlock. The Detroit Red Wings emerged victorious, defeating the Canadiens 3-1.
The tension was palpable as Matheson vented his frustration, smashing his stick against the post after DeBrincat's decisive goal.
The Red Wings showed resilience, bouncing back from a 1-0 deficit in the third period. This victory keeps Detroit in the playoff race, holding onto the eighth spot in the Eastern Conference. Although both teams sit at 84 points, Montreal edges Detroit for third in the Atlantic Division due to a superior point percentage.
The game remained scoreless until late in the second period when Montreal's Juraj Slavkovsky broke through on a power play, marking his 25th goal of the season.
Detroit responded in the third, tying the game when a puck deflected off J.T. Compher and into Montreal's net. Andrew Copp sealed the win with an empty-netter just before the final buzzer.
John Gibson was a force in goal for Detroit, turning aside 31 shots to secure the win.
Red Wings Takeaways
Detroit's recent form shows a mixed bag with a 2-2-1 record over the last five games and a 4-3-2 run in March. Notably, the Red Wings have struggled when trailing after two periods, with a 5-19-3 record in such situations this season. However, they are making the most of their current homestand, now 2-0 with two games to go.
Key Moment
Detroit had two power-play chances in quick succession during the second period but couldn't capitalize. Their power play has been a challenge, converting just 5 of 48 opportunities (10.4%) over the last 17 games.
Key Stat
Andrew Copp's return from a three-game absence due to a lower-body injury was significant. He logged 18:19 of ice time, while John Leonard was scratched to accommodate Copp's return.
Up Next for the Red Wings
The Red Wings gear up to host the Boston Bruins on Saturday in a crucial Atlantic Division clash with playoff stakes on the line. The puck drops at 8 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena.