Detroit Red Wings send strong message to Joe Veleno with line combinations for division tilt vs. Bruins

Following their 2-1 win over the New York Islanders on Thursday night at Little Caesars Arena, the Detroit Red Wings are back at it tonight with the divisional foe Boston Bruins in town.

The Red Wings gathered for their morning skate, and their forward line combinations remained the same as Thursday, meaning there is still one notable absence.

Joe Veleno, who has played in 17 games but only scored one goal with one assist, won't be playing against the Bruins.

First-year Red Wings forward Tyler Motte is once again paired on the fourth line with J.T. Compher and Jonatan Berggren, who scored the game-tying goal with 4:46 left in regulation against the Islanders.

According to Ansar Khan of MLive, the Red Wings will be rolling with the following combinations tonight against the Bruins, which include the return of Justin Holl on the back end for Albert Johansson:

Vladimir Tarasenko-Dylan Larkin-Lucas Raymond
Alex DeBrincat-Marco Kasper-Patrick Kane
Michael Rasmussen-Andrew Copp-Christian Fischer
Jonatan Berggren-J.T. Compher-Tyler Motte

Simon Edvinsson-Moritz Seider
Ben Chiarot-Jeff Petry
Erik Gustafsson-Justin Holl

Cam Talbot has been tabbed as the starter in goal.

Joe Veleno has not performed as expected, especially given his status as a former Round 1 draft selection (2018).

While there has been plenty of speculation regarding Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde's job security, tonight marks the second game for the Bruins since they parted ways with Jim Montgomery earlier in the week.

Assistant Joe Sacco has been elevated to the role of acting head coach.

Tonight's game also features a special fan giveaway at Little Caesars Arena, as the first 7,500 fans through the doors will receive a Zamboni gravy boat.