Hidden Game: Red Wings Pepper Canadiens with 45 Shots to Earn 4-2 Win
In a commanding performance that was far more one-sided than the final score suggested, the Detroit Red Wings defeated the Montreal Canadiens 4-2 on Wednesday night at Little Caesars Arena. The Red Wings overwhelmed the Canadiens with an offensive barrage, peppering Montreal’s goaltender with 45 shots on goal while their own netminder, Ville Husso, stood tall to preserve the win. Despite the high shot count, the game remained closer than expected, with Detroit securing the victory with key plays in the third period.
A Fast Start for the Red Wings
Detroit wasted no time asserting their dominance. The Red Wings set the tone early, dictating the pace of the game and controlling possession from the opening puck drop. The Canadiens, despite their best efforts, struggled to keep up with Detroit’s aggressive offensive attack.
The Red Wings’ offense was on full display from the outset, with a flurry of shots coming from all angles. Despite the high volume of shots, Montreal goalie Jake Allen managed to keep his team in the game through the first two periods with a series of crucial saves. However, the pressure continued to mount, and it was clear from the early exchanges that the Canadiens were going to need a strong defensive effort to stay in contention.
First Period Action: Red Wings Strike First
It didn’t take long for Detroit to break through. Just over eight minutes into the first period, the Red Wings capitalized on their relentless pressure. A quick pass from Lucas Raymond found Dylan Larkin in front, and Larkin buried the puck past Allen to give Detroit a 1-0 lead. The goal was a result of sustained offensive zone time, with the Red Wings controlling the puck and wearing down the Canadiens’ defense.
While Montreal had some brief offensive chances, they were unable to generate sustained pressure on Husso. The Red Wings continued to dominate the shot count, ending the period with 17 shots on goal compared to Montreal’s 7.
Canadiens Respond but Red Wings Keep Up the Pressure
In the second period, the Canadiens showed some resilience. After a solid penalty kill to open the period, Montreal found the equalizer midway through the frame. A well-executed play off a faceoff win allowed Sean Monahan to fire a wrist shot that beat Husso, tying the game at 1-1.
However, the Red Wings’ relentless offense did not falter. As the period wore on, Detroit regained control, continuing to pepper Allen with shots from all areas of the ice. Late in the second period, the Red Wings capitalized again, as Larkin set up Raymond for a one-timer that Allen had no chance to stop. The goal gave Detroit a 2-1 lead heading into the final frame, and the Red Wings were far from done.
Third Period: Red Wings Put the Game Away
In the third period, Detroit finally put the game out of reach. The Canadiens, facing a high shot volume, began to show signs of fatigue, while the Red Wings pushed forward with fresh legs and more firepower. With just over 10 minutes remaining, a quick passing play on the power play allowed David Perron to bury a rebound in front of the net, increasing Detroit’s lead to 3-1.
Montreal answered back quickly when Nick Suzuki scored off a turnover to pull the Canadiens back within one. However, despite some late pressure, the Canadiens couldn’t get the tying goal. With just under two minutes left in the game, Pius Suter sealed the victory for Detroit with an empty-net goal, making it 4-2.
Husso’s Solid Performance and Defensive Effort
While the Red Wings’ offense garnered much of the attention, Ville Husso’s performance in net should not be overlooked. Despite facing 33 shots, Husso was steady and efficient, making crucial saves at key moments, particularly late in the second and third periods. His composure under pressure helped ensure that Detroit’s lead never slipped away.
On the defensive side, the Red Wings were also solid, with their blue line doing well to limit Montreal’s high-danger chances despite the shot volume. Detroit’s defensive corps was effective at clearing the puck from dangerous areas, allowing Husso to see most of the shots clearly.
Looking Ahead
The Red Wings’ 4-2 win over the Canadiens highlighted their ability to generate consistent offense, but also showcased their resiliency and depth in all areas of the game. With 45 shots on goal, the Red Wings showed they could dictate the pace of the game and overwhelm opponents. As they continue to fight for playoff positioning in the competitive Atlantic Division, this win serves as a reminder of the potential this Detroit team has when firing on all cylinders.
For Montreal, despite the loss, there were moments of resilience. Allen’s 41-save performance helped keep the Canadiens within striking distance, and their ability to respond after falling behind showed heart. However, their inability to match the Red Wings’ shot volume or sustain pressure for long periods ultimately cost them.
For now, Detroit can take pride in a convincing win that puts them in a solid position as they continue their push for a playoff spot.
