Wings Post-Game: The Homecoming
By Nick Seguin
7 years ago
The Chicago Blackhawks rolled into town tonight for their last game ever at Joe Louis Arena. The Red Wings, coming off a five game road trip where they went 1-3-1, needed a win to keep any hope of the playoffs alive. Going into the game, Anthony Mantha was slated as a healthy scratch. The Wings would end up winning this one by a score of 4-2.
The Rundown
Detroit had a surprisingly good start, putting shots on net and creating scoring chances. Unfortunately, Chicago struck first when Panarin scored less than five minutes into the game. But Detroit came storming back, scoring two before the end of the period: one from Xavier Ouellet and one from Andreas Athanasiou. The second goal was challenged by Chicago for offside, but the call was ultimately upheld. Detroit closed out the period with a 10-6 edge on shots and a 2-1 lead.
In the second period, Detroit held on, despite Chicago outshooting them 11-10. The teams would exchange goals, with Tatar scoring his 16th of the season and Chicago’s Trevor Van Riemsdyk bringing the Blackhawks back within one.
The third was an exciting finish, with both teams getting 9 shots on goal and Detroit’s Thomas Tatar scoring again to extend their lead to 4-2. Chicago, with an empty net, would take a penalty late in the 3rd and they could never recover. The Red Wings were able to close them out.
The Stats
Detroit had a nice game here. They outplayed a very strong team who is challenging for the title of the Western Conference. They should feel good about this.
Motor City MVP
Tonight’s Motor City MVP is Tomas Tatar, who scored two goals and lifted the Wings above a very strong Blackhawks team. For their last matchup at The Joe, I’m glad the Wings won and Tatar was key to making that happen.
Up Next
Up next the Red Wings will host the New York Rangers on Sunday evening. This game was previously scheduled for 12:30 P.M. but changed to 7 P.M. It marks Brendan Smith’s return to Detroit since their mutual separation at the trade deadline. You can watch the game on NBCSN and, as always, Brock Seguin will have your pre-game report on Saturday morning right here at Wings Nation.
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