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The Daily: East A Beast For Playoff Spots; Jets Coming to Motown

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Alex Ovechkin, washington Capitals

Many NHL general managers see American Thanksgiving as an important indicator of an NHL team’s playoff hopes. Historically, the vast majority of teams that are in a playoff spot on Thanksgiving end up playing in the postseason.



Thanksgiving is still a month away. But with Halloween just days away, what we are seeing is an indication that more teams will be involved in the playoff chase in the Eastern Conference. This morning, for example, 14 of the 16 teams in the Eastern Conference have records of .500.

The Buffalo Sabres haven’t been in the NHL playoffs since 2011, but they are in a playoff spot this morning. The Washington Capitals are showing themselves to be improved. The New Jersey Devils will be a playoff factor to be sure.

That’s why Detroit coach Derek Lalonde seemed happy to get a point out of the Edmonton Oilers trip into Detroit. The Red Wings are roughly 11 percent into their 82-game schedule, but the playoffs are already a concern.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Andrew Copp believes he can help the Red Wings more. He’s proving that with a strong start that includes four goals, six points and plucky play.

Defenseman Jake Walman leads the Sharks in playing time, and he’s second in shots on goal. He’s playing a more prominant role in San Jose, but the losing continues.

Paywall story: Detroit’s pairing of Moritz Seider and Simon Edvinsson has worked well. The twosome, with its size and strength, is manhandling opposition top lines. If you need to subscribe to read this story, click here.

Red Wings Extra

Detroit’s next game is Wednesday against the surging Winnipeg Jets. The Jets are looking for their ninth consecutive win tonight in a home game against the Toronto Maple Leafs. If the Jets down the Maple Leafs, they will be attempting to set a new NHL record of 10 consecutive wins to start a season in Wednesday’s game.

Hockey Now Network

Buffalo: Jason Moser explains how Lindy Ruff is matching his Sabres lines against the opposition. Buffalo Sabres.

Florida: The Panthers have quietly enjoyed a quality start to the 2024-25 season. Florida Panthers. 

New Jersey: Sheldon Keefe offers pessimistic update on Curtis Lazar injury situation. New Jersey Devils.

Philadelphia: The Flyers are unhappy with their  “disconnected” play against the Canadiens. Montreal Canadiens. 

Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski whether anything can fix what’s wrong with the Pittsburgh Penguins.