Red Wings Need to Get Back to Basics
FollowThe Red Wings are clearly struggling. Last night’s dismal 4-1 loss to the Predators was just the latest example of a team that has lost focus. Getting healthy bodies back in the lineup will help, but it is not the overall solution and may even cause confusion until chemistry can be re-established.
Having lost three of the last five games, the Wings need to put a stop to the sloppy uninspired play before the major playoff push begins. A consistent problem this season has been the slow starts which routinely allows the opposition to score early goals and put Detroit at a deficit.
Babcock and the coaching staff also need to address the high level of defensive zone turnovers. The Red Wings, who rank 20th in the league in goals allowed, must tighten up their overall defensive game and start playing a sound defensive system in order to support the goalies.
With the playoffs on the horizon, here are a few key areas the coaching staff need to address:
- Improve play in the first period and set the tone early as opposed to playing from behind.
- Reduce turnovers especially in the defensive zone.
- Improve overall defensive game and consider tweaking the defensive system.
- Increase physical play in order to generate energy and intensity.
- Improve the play of the special teams.
- Return to simple, smart hockey.