The Red Wings start a six-game road trip in Columbus looking to overcome defensive struggles that have allowed 30 goals in seven games.
The Detroit Red Wings open a six game road trip Thursday in Columbus, looking to build momentum after winning just five of their last 14 games. Despite getting timely offense from deeper in the lineup, team defense remains a major concern as Detroit has given up a league-high 30 goals over its last seven games.
Several key players have struggled defensively, and while the Red Wings continue to score at a strong rate, they have not been able to consistently outpace the goals they allow. Columbus has also been slumping with only five wins in its last 15 games, but former Michigan standouts Zach Werenski and Adam Fantilli have been bright spots and will pose significant threats after strong performances in the previous meeting between the teams.
The matchup historically leans toward high scoring games, with seven or more goals in six straight contests between the clubs. Detroit will again rely heavily on Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond and Alex DeBrincat, with Raymond carrying especially strong numbers against the Blue Jackets. Columbus will counter with the red hot Werenski, who has dominated this matchup with fifteen points in his last eight games against Detroit. Goaltending will feature Cam Talbot for the Red Wings and Jet Greaves for the Blue Jackets, adding another layer of intrigue as both teams search for a much needed boost.
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Detroit Red Wings’ Expected Line Combinations vs. Columbus (Thursday):
Finnie – Larkin – Raymond
DeBrincat – Copp – Kane
Soderblom – Danielson – Kasper
van Riemsdyk – Compher – Berggren
Edvinsson – Seider
Chiarot – Sandin-Pellikka
Johansson – Benard-Docker
Talbot
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