Red Wings Winless Since Putting "Trash Patch" on Jerseys
From The Silky Mitten State: Detroit has seen its captain injured and lost five-straight games since putting an advertisement on its iconic jerseys. Here's why it's fair for fans to have a gripe with the patches
Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports - Red Wings Winless Since Putting "Trash Patch" on JerseysOn February 29th, the Detroit Red Wings announced that for the first time in the franchise's nearly century-long history the team's iconic Winged Wheel game sweaters would feature an advertisement.
At the time, the Red Wings were securely in the first wild card spot in the Eastern Conference playoff picture, and they'd won six straight games. Since, Detroit has seen its captain Dylan Larkin go down to injury and lost five consecutive games, putting playoff hopes that bordered on the inevitable just 10 days ago into serious jeopardy.
A search of the words "trash patch" on Twitter will reveal the primary culprit for the team's current skid in the estimation of many Red Wing fans (hint: it's the jersey advertisement).
On the most recent episode of The Silky Mitten State, my co-host Connor Earegood and I discussed our objections to the advertisement (back when the losing skid was just two). Primarily, we object to the disruption and sullying of one of the most iconic uniforms in sports for a little easy cash.
Of course, a jersey patch isn't enough to dramatically alter a fan's viewing experience. They aren't even visible on television most of the time during live action. Still, even if it is only a small disturbance, there is no reason or need for fans to simply accept an advertisement like this one on the basis that it enriches Detroit ownership.
For the full episode, go to Apple Podcasts or Spotify: