Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde issues positive declaration after California road swing

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Jack Sutherland
November 20, 2024 (9:50 PM)

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Detroit Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde is facing heavy scrutiny from fans and media in the wake of their winless California road trip, but he believes there's reason for optimism.

All eyes are on Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde, especially amidst Detroit's sluggish start to the season.

But as they continue preparations to face the New York Islanders on Thursday night at Little Caesars Arena, Lalonde shared a more optimistic outlook on Detroit's season, which he believes can still easily be turned around.

It's a little frustrating because we've had signs with some quality play but we need to be more consistent with it and we got to keep fighting to get there.

It hasn't gotten away from us.

The Red Wings have struggled mightily in both 5-on-5 play and their penalty killing, the latter of which is ranked 32nd overall in the NHL at 66.7%.

They're also not getting the depth scoring they need from players like first-year Red Wings forward Vladimir Tarasenko, who is only two years removed from a 34-goal season with the St. Louis Blues.

However, Lalonde is hoping to jump-start Tarasenko by placing him on the Red Wings' top line alongside Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond.

I've been fairly happy with Vlad, his play of late. I think it's more about spreading out our depth a little bit and I think Vlad can hopefully be productive with those two.

The Red Wings, who are 7-9-2, are tied for last place in the Atlantic Division with the Montreal Canadiens with 16 points apiece.

But the good news is that the season is still relatively young, and only five points separates the Red Wings from the third-place Tampa Bay Lightning.

Thursday's game is scheduled to begin at 7:00 PM with coverage on FanDuel Sports Detroit and 97.1 The Ticket FM.