NHL

Red Wings coach Todd McLellan opens up on team’s performance after loss to Nathan MacKinnon’s Avalanche

After the Detroit Red Wings' loss to Nathan MacKinnon’s Colorado Avalanche, coach Todd McLellan reflects on his team’s performance.

Head Coach Todd McLellan watches on during a NHL International Series Media Opportunity at Parliament House on September 18, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia.
© Photo by Morgan Hancock/Getty ImagesHead Coach Todd McLellan watches on during a NHL International Series Media Opportunity at Parliament House on September 18, 2023 in Melbourne, Australia.

The Colorado Avalanche, led by an unstoppable Nathan MacKinnon, defeated the Detroit Red Wings 5-2. The win extended MacKinnon’s home points streak to 22 games, solidifying his dominance on home ice.

With three consecutive victories and an impressive 11-1-1 record in their last 13 games, the Avalanche showcased both offensive firepower and defensive resilience.

MacKinnon, contributing a goal and an assist, and Devon Toews, who added a goal and two assists, were key in driving the Avalanche’s offense. Valeri Nichushkin, Cale Makar, and Logan O’Connor also found the net, while Jonathan Drouin and Martin Necas each recorded two assists. In goal, Mackenzie Blackwood made 21 saves to secure the win.

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Despite the loss, Red Wings coach Todd McLellan praised his team’s effort, acknowledging the challenge of facing such a strong opponent in back-to-back games. The defeat further complicates the Red Wings’ playoff hopes, leaving them three points behind the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference.

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McLellan highlights team’s effort in tough game

“We knew what we were up against with our schedule,” McLellan said, according to NHL.com. I thought we gave a solid effort against a really strong team, but it wasn’t enough. I’ve been in this building before, and after back-to-backs, things can get ugly fast. Maybe that’s why I feel a bit better about our performance today.”

NHL News: Red Wings coach Todd McLellan stuns with 4-word truth after win over Hockey Club

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Avalanche strengthens position, Red Wings continue playoff push

The Avalanche’s win against the Red Wings further solidifies their position as one of the NHL’s top teams. On the other hand, the Red Wings remain in the fight for a playoff spot, facing a tough schedule and fierce competition in the Eastern Conference. McLellan’s positive assessment, despite the loss, speaks to the Red Wings’ determination to push for a playoff berth.

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