The Detroit Red Wings stumbled early in the season with a loss to the Montreal Canadiens on opening night. However, they have rebounded nicely, winning four straight games. Players such as Patrick Kane, Dylan Larkin, and Mason Appleton have played major roles in getting Detroit to this point.
The Red Wings have missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs in nine straight seasons. Detroit has never gone an entire decade without playoff hockey. As a result, the pressure is on this group to take a step forward and make the postseason. It’s too early to crown them for anything, but the start is a very positive sign nonetheless.
Unfortunately, Detroit is dealing with some injury issues. Red Wings star Lucas Raymond is out with an upper-body injury. Top prospect Nate Danielson, who had a realistic chance at making the roster out of training camp, is also hurt.
On Saturday, Detroit’s injury concerns grew once again. Kane was held out of practice following a win over the Tampa Bay Lightning. Head coach Todd McLellan confirmed Kane won’t play against the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday.
“Kaner won’t play tomorrow. He’ll continue to be evaluated. We’ll have an update on him as we go forward,” the Detroit bench boss said in a video shared on the team’s official YouTube channel.
### Patrick Kane Remains An Impact Player
Kane is playing his third season with the Red Wings after initially signing in November 2023. He has had his ups and downs as a member of the Winged Wheel; however, it’s undeniable that the future Hall of Famer remains an impact player in the NHL.
Kane’s playmaking is still leagues above his peers. He is a vital part of Detroit’s elite power play, which ranked fourth in the NHL a season ago. His impact on the man advantage has been felt early this season, as three of his five points have come on the power play.
The Red Wings have the talent to get by without Kane for a short while. They have shown a level of trust in their rookies so far and have other veterans who could play up the lineup if needed. However, if he’s out long-term, it becomes a major issue for Detroit.
### Red Wings Working Through Lineup Changes
McLellan certainly has options to work with. However, with Connor McDavid and the Oilers coming to town, he has to make the right decisions. For now, it’s something the coaching staff is still discussing.
“We’re still trying to figure that part out. We don’t know if Raymond’s going to play, we’ve got pieces to figure out. I can’t tell you right now,” the Red Wings bench boss said when asked about the lineup.
Detroit has done well to bounce back from the loss to the Canadiens to begin the season. Sunday afternoon brings their biggest test to date, though. It will certainly be interesting to see how they respond without Kane in the lineup.
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