Opinion
3 min read

Wings Set to Soar or Stall Against Predators in Music City Showdown

As the Detroit Red Wings prepare to face off against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena, fans are bracing for what could be a pivotal moment in their season. The upcoming game on March 23rd is not just another date on the calendar; it's a chance for redemption and a test of resilience.


Dec 29, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; The pucks slips past Nashville Predators goaltender Juuse Saros (74) during the game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Nashville Predators at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-USA TODAY Sports

The Red Wings' recent performance has been a mixed bag, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by lapses that have cost them dearly. Their last outing against the Vegas Golden Knights on March 10th ended in a narrow defeat, with Detroit putting up 3 goals but conceding 5. Despite this loss, there were positives to take away – notably their even-strength play and an impressive faceoff win percentage of 62 percent.


However, it was their game against the Arizona Coyotes on March 9th that truly revealed both strengths and weaknesses within the team. The Red Wings failed to score despite firing off 28 shots and dominating hits with an imposing number of 45. This shutout loss highlighted an area that needs urgent attention: converting opportunities into goals.


Dec 29, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Moritz Seider (53) handles the puck during the third period of the game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Nashville Predators at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-USA TODAY Sports

Looking further back at their performance against Colorado Avalanche on March 7th provides some insight into what can go awry when discipline falters. The Red Wings conceded seven goals while only managing two themselves, hampered by penalties that led to two powerplay goals for the Avalanche.


But all is not lost for DET as they head into Nashville territory. Their ability to generate shots (26 against Vegas) and maintain physicality (30 hits) suggests they can dictate play when they stick to their system. Moreover, special teams could be where Detroit finds its edge; they capitalized once during three powerplay opportunities last time out.


Dec 29, 2023; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Red Wings defenseman Jake Walman (96) celebrates his goal during the third period of the game between the Detroit Red Wings and the Nashville Predators at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bradshaw Sevald-USA TODAY Sports

The Predators will not make it easy though; as hosts, they'll look to assert dominance early on in front of their home crowd at Bridgestone Arena. NSH's own form will challenge DET's resolve – but if history has taught us anything, it’s that hockey games are won on ice through grit and determination rather than past statistics alone.


For fans eager to see if Detroit can turn potential into points or if Nashville will defend its den successfully, mark your calendars for Saturday night’s clash scheduled at Bridgestone Arena at 9:00 PM local time (21:00 UTC). The game will be broadcasted across various networks including ESPN+ online as well as BSDET and BSSO television channels.

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