The Daily: Red Wings Problems Mount; No Answer for Laine

It’s three days until Christmas. But Detroit Red Wings fans are not in a festive mood after their team lost to the Montreal Canadiens for the second night in a row.

With the Red Wings owning the Eastern Conference’s second-worst record, multiple social media posts called for coach Derek Lalonde to be fired. Some also pointed a finger at Steve Yzerman.

Players are looking for answers. Fans are waiting for GM Steve Yzerman to make a move. Obviously nothing is going to happen over the holidays.

If Lalonde doesn’t get fired for this game I’m 110% checked out on the season

— Andrew (@andrewshamoon18) December 22, 2024

The Red Wings are 0-2 since Simon Edvinsson has been unable to play because of injury. Now Ben Chiarot had to leave Saturday’s game because of an upper body injury.  Detroit’s problems are mounting.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

The Milwaukee Admirals bombed goalie Ville Husso in his first start after being return to Grand Rapids Griffins. It might have been the Griffins’ worst performance this season. They were coming off some difficult road games.

Paywall story: Dylan Larkin has been watching Patrick Kane and wonders if he should follow his example. To subscribe, click here:

Red Wings Extra

The Red Wings desperately need a win Monday when they play the St. Louis Blues at Little Caesars Arena. Back-to-back losses to Montreal has created frustration for players and fans.  Goalie Alex Lyon still looks rusty. The power play has lost its mojo. Inconsistency has been the team’s biggest problem. The Red Wings can’t seem to gain any traction.

Hockey Now Network

Boston: Andrew Fantucchio writes that Charlie Coyle is receiving a chance to again be a top player for the Boston Bruins.

Florida: The Panthers don’t need help to be a dominant NHL team, but their defensemen are stepping up. Florida Panthers. 

Montreal: Marc Dumont writes about how Patrik Laine keeps netting power play goals. Ask Detroit players how dangerous Laine is on the power play. Montreal Canadiens. 

Pittsburgh: Dan Kingerski doesn’t pull punches, and he believes the Penguins can “do damage” in the Eastern Conference playoff race. Pittsburgh Penguins.