Lalonde Clear About What the Red Wings Need From Veleno

Joe Veleno knows his ability to regain a place in the Detroit Red Wings’ lineup isn’t necessarily connected upon how Patrick Kane and Michael Rasmussen are feeling tonight near seven o’clock.

But it could impact how Veleno is used if he does play.

Detroit coach Derek Lalonde said Kane and Rasmussen missed practice Sunday because they were having a “maintenance day.” But he added that both players are dealing with upper body issues. He said he hoped both would play, but wasn’t completely sure.

Veleno was scratched for the last two games. After netting 12 goals last season, Veleno shows only one goal and two points this season. Before the benching, he registered only one shot on goal over his last five games. On a team struggling to score goals, the Red Wings need him to generate offense like he did last season.

Lalonde is clear about what he wants from Veleno when he plays again.

“Assertiveness, hard to play against, win some battles,” Lalonde said.

He added: “There’s times when he’s assertive with his game and he’s an effective player, so that’ll be his challenge when he goes back in. I would expect getting him back in no matter what the scenario is with Kane and Ras.”

Lyon Starts in Goal

Tyler Motte could be a scratch option if Kane and Rasmussen play and Lalonde decides to use Veleno.

The Red Wings like Veleno’s skating, and he offers physical play. He has recorded 100-plus hits in each of the last three seasons.

Lalonde also said Alex Lyon would start Monday night. Lyon has beaten the Islanders twice already this season and has only given up one goal in two games.

“Last two (Islanders) games were very similar,” Lalonde said. “It’s going to be hard to get anything. Ice is going to be hard. Not a lot of ice available. Two teams committed to being on top, not beating themselves. It’s going to be tight. Fortunately, we found a way to hang in there and get a win the last time.”