Articles / How the Red Wings Turned Their Special Teams Weakness Into a Weapon

How the Red Wings Turned Their Special Teams Weakness Into a Weapon

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The Hockey Writers
Sep 22, 2025 6:30 PM

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The Detroit Red Wings have transformed what was once a significant weakness in their special teams into a formidable asset. Under the guidance of head coach Derek Lalonde, they have revamped their power play, moving from a mediocre performance to one that is consistently threatening. Key players, including Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond, have been pivotal in this resurgence, showcasing their skills and chemistry to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

This strategic overhaul has not only improved the team's effectiveness with the man advantage but has also instilled confidence within the roster. The Red Wings have embraced a more aggressive approach, leveraging their speed and skill to dominate the puck possession during power plays. The result? An impressive spike in goals scored during such crucial moments in games, which has contributed to their overall success in the season.

Furthermore, the penalty kill unit has seen a revival as well, with players like Tyler Bertuzzi stepping up to disrupt opposing teams' offensive strategies. Lalonde's tactics emphasize discipline and situational awareness, leading to fewer penalties and a more resilient defensive effort. As the season progresses, the Red Wings are proving to be a tough opponent, with their special teams now an integral part of their game plan, setting them apart in the fiercely competitive NHL landscape.