NHL News: Red Wings’ Todd McLellan reflects on what went wrong vs NY Rangers

The Detroit Red Wings entered Friday’s game with the New York Rangers hoping to build momentum after a recent loss to the Vegas Golden Knights. The team showed signs of life early, but scoring remained an issue, leaving fans frustrated as opportunities slipped away.

Patrick Kane returned to the ice for Detroit and had several key chances to change the game’s trajectory. Still, the Red Wings managed just one goal, while Rangers star Artemi Panarin recorded three points, highlighting the skill gap in critical moments.

Following the loss, head coach Todd McLellan addressed the media, pointing to mental lapses and missed scoring chances as the difference in the game. Despite a physical effort, Detroit couldn’t find consistency or capitalize when it mattered most.

What went wrong for the Red Wings?

McLellan noted, according to NHL.com, that the team executed well physically but fell short mentally. “I thought we were there physically tonight, but I’m not sure we were there between the ears again. That includes offensively. We had some pretty good opportunities and Jonathan Quick made some great saves, but when you are sharp, alert and attentive, some of those go in for you.”

Forward J.T. Compher, who scored Detroit’s lone goal, also reflected on the turning point. “We did a pretty good job of giving ourselves a chance most of the game, but they strike to make it 3-1 and then we kind of give them one to make it 4-1 and it feels way different.”

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Missed chances, including Kane’s near goal, underscored the Red Wings’ struggles to convert when it mattered most. Quick’s standout performance kept the Rangers ahead and shifted momentum firmly in their favor.

Detroit now turns its focus to Sunday’s home game against the Chicago Blackhawks, led by Connor Bedard, hoping to reverse course and regain their early-season form.