After an explosive win against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Detroit Red Wings (3-1, 3rd in Atlantic) are set to battle the Ottawa Senators (3-1, 2nd in Atlantic), who are fresh off a dominating 6-1 victory over the Washington Capitals. Both squads are lighting up the scoreboard, making this a can’t-miss showdown for anyone tracking the NHL closely.

The Winged Wheel Gains Momentum

The Detroit Red Wings come into this matchup with a 3-1 record, a standing that few would have expected given their recent seasons of rebuilding. Their latest win, a 6-3 victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins, displayed how far the rebuild has progressed. Andrew Copp and Alex DeBrincat, who each scored twice, symbolize Detroit’s depth. DeBrincat, in particular, has been on a mission thus far this season, amassing 8 points in just four games. While it’s early in the season, such form can become a defining feature, especially as younger players gain confidence.

The goaltending scenario for Detroit presents a mixed bag. Ville Husso has shown moments of quality, but his goals-against average of 3.38 and a save percentage of .881 indicate inconsistency. James Reimer, on the other hand, has shown promise in his limited time between the pipes, boasting a shutout and a perfect save percentage in his sole appearance. But goaltending alone won’t determine Detroit’s fate in this game. The team ranks first in the league in power-play percentage at 46.2%, a staggering figure that, even if unsustainable in the long run, poses a significant threat to any opponent.

On the defensive end, Detroit has shown some vulnerabilities, allowing an average of 2.75 goals per game. However, the penalty kill has been efficient, neutralizing 86.7% of opponents’ power-play opportunities. While the Red Wings are not a defensive juggernaut, they’ve done enough to support their high-octane offense. Their defensive metrics, although not stellar, are good enough to make them a balanced team. Importantly, they rank 14th in penalty minutes, suggesting a disciplined approach that minimizes opponents’ chances on the power play.

Detroit Red Wings Team Facts

• The Red Wings have lost seven of their last eight games at Canadian Tire Centre.
• The Red Wings have covered the puck line in seven of their last eight day games following a home win.
• The Red Wings have lost the third period in each of their last six day games.
• The ‘Over 2.5 Goals Period 1′ market has hit in four of the Red Wings’ last five games as underdogs against Atlantic Division opponents.

Senators Skating Strong

The Ottawa Senators are not to be taken lightly, entering this game with a matching 3-1 record. Their recent 6-1 thrashing of the Washington Capitals highlighted their offensive firepower. Josh Norris’s return to the ice was nothing short of spectacular, netting two goals and adding another player to an already potent offense. Vladimir Tarasenko and Tim Stutzle, each with 6 points, have been at the forefront of this offensive surge. Tarasenko’s playmaking abilities, combined with Stutzle’s finishing, make Ottawa’s attack multidimensional and difficult to contain.

In the net, Anton Forsberg has been a big plus for the Senators, posting a stellar goals-against average of 2.01 and a save percentage of .933. His backup, Joonas Korpisalo, has been somewhat less consistent, with a goals-against average of 3.53 and a save percentage of .894. However, Ottawa’s defense has given its goaltenders ample support, allowing only 2.5 goals per game. The penalty kill unit has been effective as well, with an 87.5% success rate, although discipline has been an issue with the team ranking 23rd in penalty minutes.

The Senators’ offensive arsenal is complemented by a sturdy defense, but the real story here might be their special teams. They have a potent power play, converting at a rate of 25.0%, and their penalty kill has been nearly as impressive. These special teams’ metrics could be the X-factor in a matchup against a Detroit team that also excels in these areas. 

Ottawa Senators Team Facts

• The home team has won each of the Senators’ last 10 games.
• The Senators have covered the puck line in 10 of their last 11 home games against Atlantic Division opponents.
• The Senators have won the first period in each of their last seven games as favorites against Eastern Conference opponents.
• The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 2′ market has hit in each of the Senators’ last 13 Saturday games.

Matchup/League Facts

• The Ottawa Senators ranks T1st in the league for goals per game this season (4.75).
• The Ottawa Senators are one of four teams to rank in the top 10 for both goals scored and goals conceded per game this season.
• The Detroit Red Wings ranks T1st in the league for goals per game this season (4.75).
• The Detroit Red Wings ranks 1st in the league in power play percentage this season (46.15%).

David’s Pick – ç

Both teams are coming off high-scoring wins, but the edge here goes to Detroit. Despite some goaltending concerns, their offensive firepower is hard to ignore. Ottawa’s penalty kill will be put to the test against Detroit’s lethal power play. While the Senators have a strong goalie in Forsberg, the Red Wings’ depth in scoring, led by DeBrincat, gives them the upper hand. Detroit has been disciplined, which could be the difference-maker against an Ottawa team that’s been spending a bit more time in the penalty box. With both teams performing similarly in many statistical categories, this game could go either way, but Detroit’s slightly better discipline and potent power play give them the edge.