Bleacher Report - Articles by Katie Evans

Stanley Cup Finals: Hossa and Malkin Are Keys In Finals

Katie Evans — Fri, 29 May 2009 19:41:54 -0400

This year the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Detroit Red Wings will battle it out in the Stanley Cup finals.

Again.

I have been watching both Detroit and Pittsburgh throughout the entire playoff run thus far and stated to many friends and family that it would come down to this match up once again, the difference this time; Marian Hossa and Evgeni Malkin.

Let’s start with Malkin. Last year it didn’t seem like Malkin really had his footing in the finals which caused him to have a very hard time scoring and very hard time getting away from Euro Twins, Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk. This year however, Malkin has been phenomenal in the playoffs, scoring 12 goals leaving him second in scoring behind teammate Sidney Crosby. He is also tied for points in the playoffs, with Crosby, and leads with assists.

Detroit fans shouldn’t sit back and think that this will be an easy series for the defending champs who last year, with a struggling Malkin, took the cup in six games.

Pittsburgh was a strong team then and is an even stronger team this year, however what could be the difference maker is the newest addition to the Red Wings roster; former Pittsburgh Penguin Marian Hossa.

Hossa came to Detroit at the beginning of the season wanting to win the Stanley Cup. He came so close last year and the only thing that stood in his way was Detroit, and Detroit fans were happy to have him come. Fans probably remember the final seconds in Game Six when a Sidney Crosby shot went just wide and very determined Marian Hossa came with the rebound with a last chance effort to tie the game. We all know how that ended but now it’s Hossa’s chance to win his first Stanley Cup.

Hossa seemed to be struggling as the playoffs started but it wasn’t until Game Four against Chicago that Hossa tacked on two more goals to his four goals in the playoffs and started to get his game going. I doubt Hossa would want to lose to his former team in the finals and I believe that will really get him going to dominate in the series.

As an avid Red Wings fan, I know that this series will be once again very fun to watch. Johan Franzen has once again been blowing fans away with his performance in the playoffs scoring 10 goals and Darren Helm has seemed to be the hero for Detroit with his unbelievable speed and his overtime game-winning goal to take the series against Chicago on Wednesday.

Goaltender Chris Osgood has also been very strong and is making key saves.

However, Detroit still needs to be on the lookout and needs to contain players like Crosby, Malkin and Jordan Staal.

Another good sign for Detroit is that captain Nicklas Lidstrom and defenseman Jonathan Ericsson will be back in the lineup for Game One after injuries. Pavel Datsyuk, however, will be a game day decision and fans really look forward to his return.

Detroit fans also have to wonder if Crosby touching the Prince of Wales Trophy will be a jinx for his team and the fact that the referees have not exactly been letting Detroit get away with much.

This should be a great series to watch as it begins Saturday at 8 p.m. in Detroit and as far as who will take the series and the Stanley Cup, I believe Detroit takes it in six.

Blackhawks-Red Wings: Detroit Starts Out the Western Conference Finals Strong

Katie Evans — Sun, 17 May 2009 17:50:29 -0400

With game one of the Western Conference Finals underway, the Chicago Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings played a strong game of hockey and started what should be a great series between two very strong teams. After lots of excitment and chances Detroit came out on top to take game one of the series with a final score of 5-2.

In the first period Chicago came out strong and seemed to outplay Detroit with lots of chances and great skill. It didnt take long before Andrew Burish started out scoring for Chicago to make it 1-0.

Later in the first Detroit seemed to get it together as Daniel Cleary scored a great goal as he was all alone with Khabibulin to tie it up with the first period closing.

With the second period underway both teams seemed to get it together and Johan Franzen kept his streak going with a goal to make it 2-1 Detroit.

In the third period Chicago came out strong with a mission to score and Kris Versteeg tied it up for a 2-2 score.

After that the game was all Detroit as Mikael Samuelsson started off scoring to make it 3-2 and Daniel Cleary worked towards a hat trick scoring his second of the night for a 4-2 lead.

Chris Osgood continued to play very strong and seemed to be playing as well if not better than he did in the first series against Columbus.

With one last effort by Chicago Henrik Zetterberg scored an empty net goal to help lead the Wings to a 5-2 win and a grab on the series for a 1-0 lead.

The next game between the two teams is Tuesday night which looks to be a continuation on a great series.

Detroit-Columbus: Franzen, Red Wings Sweep The Blue Jackets

Katie Evans — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 21:50:24 -0400

The Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets battled it out in game 4 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs on Thursday as the Wings took a series sweep defeating the Jackets 6-5.

With the first period underway and a series of penalties to Blue Jackets Derek Dorsett and Raffi Torres and one to Red Wing Jonathan Ericsson, Nick Lidstrom came out on top with a goal to start off scoring to give Detroit a 1-0 lead.

Later in the first when Kirk Maltby took interference penalty Kristian Huselius took advantage to tie it up with a rocket shot to tie the game, 1-1, which really got the crowd going.

Tomas Holmstrom made it, 2-1, as he scored on a rebound chance and Vallteri Filppula and Jiri Hudler had a chance but Mason made the save.

Daniel Cleary made it, 3-1 at the end of the first period, as he banked in a shot off Steve Mason's skate.

With the second period underway Columbus came out strong and Rick Nash scored his first playoff goal to get a score of, 3-2, while Detroit seemed to be a little tired and getting into trouble.

On a horrible call on Jonathan Ericsson for holding R.J Umberger scored to tie the game 3-3.

Detroit started to get wound up and Marian Hossa scored on a rebound and wide-open net for a, 4-3, game.

After Nash took a penalty for crosschecking Hossa scored his second of the night and got the Wings back up to a, 5-3, lead.

Kris Russell tried to get his team back and the crowd as he got Columbus within one on a goal for a, 5-4, score.

Fredrik Moden tied up the game to give fans hope for a, 5-5, game.

In the third period both teams came out strong and it wasn't until Columbus took a too many men penalty and Johan Franzen scored the game winner for a final score of, 6-5.

Red Wings-Blue Jackets: Wings Work Towards Series Sweep

Katie Evans — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 20:41:33 -0400

The Detroit Red Wings and Columbus Blue Jackets continued to battle is out in the Stanley Cup Playoffs on Saturday as Detroit leads the series, 2-0, after a, 4-0, win.

It seemed to be a bit of a repeat of game one when ten seconds into the game Daniel Cleary took an interference penalty.

Fredrik Modin had a great opportunity however; red hot Chris Osgood continued to play solid and denied Modin of a goal.

Detroit came out strong and seemed to be the better team as Marian Hossa and Pavel Datsyuk made a great play with Steve Mason making a great save.

On a penalty to Jakub Vorachek for hooking, Brian Rafalski took advantage and scored to start the Red Wings off to a, 1-0, lead in the first period.

As the second period was underway both teams came out very strong as Osgood and Mason made great saves and denied chances.

On a bad giveaway by Detroit R.J Umberger was all alone but a great defensive play by Brad Stuart left him without a shot.

After another penalty call to Vermette Detroit went on another power play and it was Pavel Datsyuk who scored from a great pass from Hossa to lead, 2-0.

Henrik Zetterberg scored midway through the second period to give Detroit a 3-0 lead.

With the third period underway tempers flared as Jason Chimera took a boarding penalty on a dangerous hit to Nick Kronwall and Jiri Hudler added another power play goal for Detroit for a 4-0 lead and a win.

Detroit leads the series 2-0 and will play Tuesday night at 7 p.m. in Columbus.

Red Wings- Blue Jackets: Columbus Plays First Playoff Game in Detroit

Katie Evans — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 21:39:02 -0400

The Stanley Cup Playoffs began Thursday night in Detroit, as the Red Wings and Blue Jackets battled it out in a very entertaining game as Detroit defeated Columbus 4-1.

Both teams came out strong and when Brad Stuart had a bad giveaway Chris Osgood assured Wings fans there is a reason he is the starting goaltender with a great save.

As tempers flared and both teams started to take bad penalties it was unclear which team would score first, but as the first period came to an end neither team did and it ended scoreless.

With the second period underway great hits and great skill continue to be shown and it wasn't until midway through the second that Jiri Hudler scored his 6th career playoff goal to give his team a 1-0 lead.

30 seconds later however R.J Umberger scored a goal to give it a 1-1 tie.

Marian Hossa had a great opportunity with an open net but it hit a stick and missed the net but Jonathan Ericsson scored his first playoff goal in his first playoff game to give a 2-1 lead.

After Vermette took a hooking penalty Niklas Kronwall scored a powerplay goal for a 3-1 lead.

With the third period the only hope left for Columbus winning game one they continued to play strong but Osgood continued to be red hot and make great saves.

Johan Franzen however, denied all hope the Blue Jackets had from a great feed from Henrik Zetterberg for his 18th playoff goal and a final score of 4-1

Game two is Saturday in Detroit.

Blackhawks-Red Wings: Chicago Closes With a Win

Katie Evans — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 17:33:39 -0400

The Detroit Red Wings and Chicago Blackhawks battled it out on Easter Sunday, and Chicago closed their regular season with a 3-0 shutout.

Andrew Ladd came out in the first period to start off the 'Hawk scoring after receiving a pass from Dustin Byfuglien, and Chicago had a 1-0 lead.

It wasn't long before Jonathan Toews scored his 34th of the season to make it 2-0.

Colin Fraser later had a chance to score a shorthanded goal for the Blackhawks but was denied by Chris Osgood.

Detroit had several opportunities but was unable to get it past Chicago goalie Nikolai Khabibulin, who played very strongly all game.

At the start of the second period, Detroit came out stronger but was still unable to slow Chicago down. They did at least prevent a Blackhawk goal as the buzzer was sounding.

Then, early in the third, Valtterri Filppula and Johan Franzen both had chances but were held back by the Chicago defense and Khabibulin.

After a hooking penalty was called on Filppula, Dave Bolland scored to give the Blackhawks a 3-0 victory in the closer. Khabibulin earned his second shutout in his last four starts.

Detroit Red Wings: Female Fans Continue New Tradition For Playoffs

Katie Evans — Sun, 12 Apr 2009 14:59:02 -0400

"The Beard is Back," and so is The Alternative Playoff Beard.

During last years playoff run for the Detroit Red Wings, female fans had their own version of the playoff beard. Members from Letsgowings.com, a fan site where Red Wings fans can discuss current games as well as other NHL news, started to discuss the playoff beard and how they would be, as fans, growing beards as well.

Katie Evans and Rabia Asghar, two ladies of the site, wanted to come up with an alternative and fun way that the female fans can support the Detroit Red Wings rally towards the Stanley Cup.

The rules are the same, and it's an easy way for the female Red Wings fans to participate in the annual playoff beard tradition. This also helps fans who cant grow beards because of a job or if they simply just cant grow one.

This is all you will need: Embroidery floss—which can be bought at almost any craft store in red and white.

When the playoffs begin, fans will tie the strings onto their wrist like a bracelet, adding red to represent a win and a white for a loss; the goal in the end is to have 16 red strings.

Each game, whether it being a win or a loss, fans will add a new string to show off their support for their team. Members will also post pictures to show off their playoff spirit, as well as be known as Red Wing fans on either letsgowings.com, or the facebook group: The Alternative Playoff Beard.

The Red Wings are ready for the playoffs. Are you?

Detroit Red Wings-Chicago Blackhawks Prepare for the Playoffs

Katie Evans — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 17:32:23 -0400

As Detroit and Chicago faced off in a back to back game against each other, it seemed to be the most laid back game of the season since a win or a loss for either team would not affect them for the playoffs. However, Detroit lost their second straight game as Chicago won 4-2

Even with it being "throw-away" game it was still full of lots of action and lots of skill as these teams met for the first time since the Winter Classic and Detroit had won all four meetings thus far.

As the game started 15 seconds in Niklas Hjalmarsson scored his first NHL goal for Chicago giving Detroit a bit of a rocky start as Chicago led 1-0.

Midway through the first on a cross checking call to Blackhawks Troy Brouwer Valtteri Filppula scored a power play goal to tie the game.

Both teams continued to play strong and netminders Ty Conklin and Cristobal Huet made key stops to help lead their teams.

Henrik Zetterberg took advantage of a rebound when he blast the puck past Huet to give Detroit a 2-1 lead.

As the third period was underway Ben Eager tied it up on Chicago's first shot of the period to once again tie the game.

It wasn't until a penalty shot to Dustin Byfuglien after a hook from Nicklas Kronwall would lead to him scoring the game winner to give Chicago the win.

Red Wings-Sabres: Detroit Continues Rally Toward Playoffs with Monday Victory

Katie Evans — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 15:07:09 -0400

As the playoffs come closer and closer, the Detroit Red Wings seem to finally be getting it together. They battled the Buffalo Sabres Monday night with another victory, 4-1.

Both teams came out strong in the first period. Buffalo showed some great chances, but it was Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood who started out the strongest, and in the end it all paid off.

Detroit seemed to get shaky for a bit but pulled it together as Henrik Zetterberg and Johan Franzen both had chances.

Tensions flared after a high stick to Franzen drew blood, but no penalty was called.

Later in the second period, Jonathon Ericsson got into a scrum after a clean hit from Valterri Filppula didn't settle well with the Sabers players.

Brad Stuart got the Wings on the board with a powerplay goal, giving his team a 1-0 lead.

Marian Hossa scored his 39th goal of the season early in the third period on a rebound shot from Nick Lidstrom, making it 2-0 Detroit.

It didnt take long before he made his 39th goal of the season his 40th, sending a rocket shot into the net to give Detroit a 3-0 advantage.

As Buffalo finally got chances, the puck couldn't be settled down, and with rebound after rebound, Paul Gaustad finally got one past Osgood to get his team on the board, for a score of 3-1.

Buffalo pulled goaltender Ryan Miller for the extra man at the end of the third, but Lidstrom scored an empty-net goal to give Detroit a 4-1 lead and the victory.

Thursday night as Detroit battled Nashville, in a must need win for Nashville to be apart in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, they did just that as the won in a shoot-out.

Red Wings-Wild: Marian Hossa Helps Detroit End Losing Streak

Katie Evans — Sun, 05 Apr 2009 15:19:09 -0400

Coming into Sunday afternoon on a three-game losing streak, the Detroit Red Wings were getting desperate for a win.

The Minnesota Wild were getting desperate for a playoff spot.

With a final score of 3-2, the Red Wings got Hockeytown fans even more ready for the playoffs.

Detroit showed early on that they wanted a win as they had a number of chances in the first period. The Wild, however, did a good job with puck control and held Detroit back.

Henrik Zetterberg had a phenomenal game as he showed off his skills with a good scoring chance, but without help from his teammates on the rebound, Wild goaltender Nicklas Backstrom denied him.

Detroit had a number of chances.

During a powerplay, Jiri Hudler hit the crossbar while the Wild seemed to have a hard time hanging on. As the penalty ended Hudler got one past Backstrom, giving the Red Wings a 1-0 lead. Minutes later, Marian Hossa gave a pass to Pavel Datsyuk with lots of time and a wide open net.

The result: goal, 2-0 Wings.

Minnesota was finally able to get one past Chris Osgood on a goal from Cal Clutterbuck. Detroit took a 2-1 lead to the dressing room when the first period came to an end.

As the second period began, Zetterberg continued to play strongly and had yet another great chance, but was denied by Backstrom.

The Wild started to struggle a bit: Detroit seemed to have more confidence and Minnesota couldn't deliver on their chances.

Zetterberg fed a great pass to Dan Cleary, but he was denied. Detroit captain Nick Lidstrom suffered the same fate on a rocket from the blue line.

On a bad giveaway by Detroit, Minnesota had an opportunity. However, Osgood made a great save.

In the final minute of the second period, Marian Gaborik continued his five-game scoring streak, and it was 2-2 after two.

Minnesota's defense came out strong in the third period. They did a great job of keeping Detroit out of the offensive zone and denying them chances.

A bad giveaway by Detroit left Mikko Koivu with an opportunity, but Chris Osgood made the save of the game which really got the fans into it.

Osgood continued making key saves for the remainder of the game. As the final minute was about to begin, Tomas Holmstrom made a great pass to Hossa as he scored his 38th goal of the season, giving Detroit the win with a final score of 3-2.

Detroit-Nashville: Red Wings Try to Regain Top Spot in Western Confernce

Katie Evans — Sun, 29 Mar 2009 19:50:01 -0400

The Detroit Red Wings and Nashville Predators battled it out Sunday as Detroit hoped for the win to help boost them back into a chance at first in the Western Conference, however, the Nashville Predators seem to be the team they can't beat as Nashville won 4-3.

The Wings struggled early as they had trouble keeping it out of the zone and the defense seemed to be a little unsteady.

After Chris Chelios took a tripping penalty for Detroit Henrik Zetterberg showed lot of pressure for Nashville however Sullivan got a power play goal for Nashville to lead 1-0.

After Brad Stuart took a holding penalty, it seemed as though the Wings would be in trouble tonight but a great feed to Zetterberg scoring his 30th goal and getting his 400th point to tie the game 1-1.

As the Wings finally got some rhythm, Chris Osgood made some huge saves for his team and Samuelsson had an opportunity, but Pakke Rinne stepped up for Nashville denying Detroit a chance.

Both teams showed great pressure in the second period and a shot by Detroit captain Nick Lidstrom had a shot go off the post.

As Detroit went on another power play Samuelsson took advantage scoring making it, 2-1, Detroit.

As Detroit continued having great opportunities, Nashville defense played hard and kept Detroit from scoring.

After a turn over by Jonathon Ericsson Joel Ward scored for Nashville to once again tie up the game and 20-seconds later took the lead as Smithson scored on a bad bounce past Osgood.

Detroit wasn't giving up easy though as Johan Franzen, after having a goal reviewed taken away from him, shot a rocket past Rinne to tie it up once again.

A penalty to Detroit seemed to be the deal breaker as Ryan Suter scored the game winner for Nashville as they defeated Detroit and kept them from top spot in the Western Conference.

Detroit Red Wings—Edmonton Oilers: Wings Look to Redeem Themselves

Katie Evans — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:05:47 -0400

After a loss to Calgary Monday night, Detroit came into Edmonton looking for a win to boost themselves back towards the top of the Western Conference. With a third period comeback to beat Edmonton 3-2, they regained the lead in the Western Conference from the San Jose Sharks.

Both teams came out looking strong, but it was Edmonton scoring first from a rocket slapshot by Denis Grebeshkov on the powerplay that gave his team a 1-0 lead in the first period.

Detroit continued to have great chances, but couldn't seem to get it past Roloson, who played very strong all night.

It wasn't until the third period that the action really began. Detroit's defensemen Jonathon Ericsson scored his first goal of the season to tie up the game and give his team the confidence boost they needed.

As time winded down, both teams had chance after chance, finally off a great play from Marian Hossa, Johan Franzen gained his team the lead making it 2-1 Detroit.

Right off the draw Valterri Filppula scored a quick draw shot extending the gap to 3-1.

As the last minutes came, a blast by Ales Kotalik put Edmonton back in the game netting him his 15th goal of the season and making it a 3-2 game.

After Edmonton pulled Roloson for the extra man, Detroit was able to fend them off for their much needed victory.

Next up the Wings battle the Islanders Friday night in Detroit.

Detroit-Calgary Battle It Out In Western Conference Match

Katie Evans — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 00:04:54 -0400

The Detroit Red Wings and Calgary Flames battled it out Monday night as Calgary defeated Detroit 5-3.

After falling to second place in the West, the Red Wings came out wanting a win. In the first period both teams had chance after chance. Kiprusoff and Osgood, however, did good jobs supporting their team's nets. It wasn't until Dion Phaneuf got one past Osgood to get Calgary on the board.

The Flames defense showed it's strength as Henrik Zetterberg and Dan Cleary had great chances at the end of the first, but were unable to deliver.

The first period came to an end, 1-0 Calgary.

As the second period began, Osgood let in a goal by Lundmark giving Calgary a 2-0 lead. That was only the beginning as both teams finished out checks, and a lot of hits were delivered.

Detroit's Samuelson had the first chance to score for the Wings. He shot the puck past Kiprusoff, it stopped on the line and was waved off.

After Franzen took a penalty for roughing, Cammalleri scored giving the Flames a 3-0 lead. After that goal Ty Conklin came in for Chris Osgood, hoping to turn things around.

Finally, Pavel Datsyuk scored his 30th goal of the season as he continued his eight game point streak.

The second period came to an end with Calgary leading 3-1.

As the third period came underway Detroit was showing good pressure, and another goal was waved off for Detroit. It was Calgary that once again came up with a goal as Glencross scored his 13th goal of the season, giving his team a 4-1 lead.

The Red Wings finally woke up as Franzen scored his 31st of the season, and soon after, Jiri Hudler scored a tremedous goal to get his team within a goal.

Just as it seemed Detroit was making a comeback, Calgary's Greg Conroy had an empty net goal as Detroit was trying to tie it up with less then a minute left.

Detroit had a four game winning streak that was stopped tonight. Detroit will battle Edmonton Tuesday night in hopes of a win.

Red Wings-Thrashers: Wings Dominate Against Thrashers In 6-3 Victory

Katie Evans — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 22:26:32 -0400

The Detroit Red Wings and Atlanta Thrashers battled it out Friday night as Detroit dominated in a 6-3 win to keep their lead in the Western Conference.

In the first period, Detroit came out strong with lots of pressure on Atlanta, but a penalty to Marian Hossa early in the first showed how dominant Chris Osgood would be for Detroit.

Osgood made save after save and Atlanta was unable to take advantage.

Later in the period Atlanta took a penalty for too many men and instead of taking advantage of the power play, Detroit's Brian Rafalski scored as the penalty ended.

As Osgood continued making great saves it almost seemed as if it was a home game for Detroit and "Ozzie" chants could be heard from the crowd and the first period came to a close 1-0 Detroit.

In the second period Peverly was denied on a great shot by Osgood, starting the chants once again. As penalties brought the game to 4-on-4 play, Pavel Datsyuk scored, making it 2-0 Detroit.

Jiri Hudler also took advantage in the second period to break a 14-game rut scoring his 50th career goal by an amazing pass from Brett Lebda ending the second period 3-0.

While on another power play, Detroit made it 4-0 after Johan Franzen took advantage of a rebound and scored his 30th goal of the season following a shot from Nick Lidstrom making it 4-0.

This was the 84th power play goal Detroit has scored this season.

Bryan Little finally scored for Atlanta, his 31st of the season, on the power play.

However, it didn't take long before Marian Hossa blasted a shot to score against his former team making the score 5-1.

Slava Kozlov also scored against his former team and his 21st of the season just as a power play began after Dan Cleary took a penalty.

Hossa came in all alone against Lehtonen but was denied. However, Cleary from a great feed from Henrik Zetterberg scored bringing his team to a 6-2 lead.

This gave Zetterberg a four-point night.

As the third period was coming to an end Samuelson and Oystrick dropped the gloves to get the crowd back in the game, and only seconds later Colin Stuart scored to make the final score 6-3.

Conklin, Hossa Battle Former Team In Stanley Cup Finals Rematch

Katie Evans — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 15:02:20 -0500

The Detroit Red Wings and Pittsburgh Penguins battled it out Sunday afternoon in a Stanley Cup Finals rematch with a outcome similar to last June.

With lots of pressure and great chances for Detroit, Pittsburgh, Marian Hossa, and Ty Conkiln got the win against their former team with a 3-0 shutout.

After a first period of great chances and the showing off of skills for both teams it wasn't until the second period that Pavel Datsyuk scored a power play goal to finally get things started.

Marian Hossa, through all the harassment from fans, got it past Marc-Andre Fleury and scored his 30th goal of the season.

Shortly after, Datsyuk scored once again to lead Detroit 3-0 closing the door on Pittsburgh.

Detroit seems to be off to a good start following their five game losing streak they faced at the end of January and seek to add another win Tuesday in Nashville

Red Wings-Capitals: Detroit Struggles with Key Players Injured

Katie Evans — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 15:06:31 -0500

After the loss to Dallas on Thursday, Detroit faced off against Alexander Ovechkin and his Washington Capitals in a game that showcased two of the most skilled teams in the NHL.

However, with Henrik Zetterberg still out with an injury and Tomas Holmstrom joining him back in Detroit with a sore groin, the Wings still struggled to finish as the Capitals won 4-2.

With the first period underway, Detroit showed great puck control keeping the Capitals out of the zone and had a number of great chances, but couldn't seem to get it past Jose Theodore.

That is, until Grand Rapids call-up Ville Leino scored his first NHL goal, with a great demonstration of skill on a beautiful backhanded shot right past Theodore.

Shortly after, Victor Kozlov scored for Washington and the first period ended in a tie.

The second period proved to be very similar to the first.

It was a battle of skills as a constant game of keep-away was played between Detroit's Nicklas Lidstrom and Washington's Ovechkin.

Late in the second, Washington's Mike Green got one past Ty Conkiln but, as in the first period, shortly thereafter Johan Franzen tied the game once again for Detroit.

The third period truly seemed to be a turning point in the game, for it wasn't until late that Ovechkin showed off his skills, finally getting one in the net.

Ovechkin added another quickly on a power play, gaining the crowd on his side.

Detroit fought hard, and Washington took some penalties late in the third, but the Wings could not beat Theodore despite skating with two extra men for almost two minutes at the end of the game.

This was the fifth-straight loss for the Wings. They look to break that streak as they play St. Louis on Monday.

Detroit-Dallas: Wings and Stars In Conference Finals Rematch

Katie Evans — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 22:03:50 -0500

Following the All-Star Game suspensions of Nick Lidstrom and Pavel Datsyuk that raised a lot of eyebrows on the fans in Detroit and the week long absence of hockey for the fans, the Red Wings went into their game against Dallas looking for a win.

With the absence of newly-signed Henrik Zetterberg, who was out with back spasms, and Brad Stuart, officially listed on Injured Reserve, the Wings called up familiar faces Aaron Downey and Ville Leino.

However, the Wings opened the game off to a rocky start.

Detroit took some badly-called penalties that resulted in goals from Dallas' Brad Richards and Jere Lehtinen. Towards the end of the first period, Chris Conner scored, giving Dallas to a 3-0 first period lead.

At the start of the second period, Dallas' Erikkson scored early to make the game 4-0. However, Detroit finally showed up to play after Brian Rafalski made a great pass to Marian Hossa to get Detroit on the board.

It didn't take long before Dallas and Detroit began to make it look like a battle from the Western Conference finals last year. Downey began to get feisty, the crowd finally showed some enthusiasm for the game, and Dallas took their first penalty of the game.

The Wings thought they scored a goal on the power play, but it was reviewed and determined no goal. However, they made up for it shortly after, when Andreas Lilja scored his second goal of the season.

Soon after, Detroit had another goal waved off after Lidstrom got one past Marty Turco. It was reviewed and called back as goaltender interference.

Going into the third period, down by two goals, Detroit seemed to have their game back together and had several chances, but couldn't seem to get the puck past Turco.

Turco, having never defeating Detroit at Joe Louis during the regular season, accomplished that after Dallas defeated Detroit 4-2.

The Red Wings' next game Saturday against Alexander Ovechkin's Washington Capitals should be a good battle of skills and determination during the second half of the regular season.

Detroit Red Wings: Feed the Mule and Win

Katie Evans — Sat, 10 May 2008 10:46:24 -0400

Johan Franzen was always a silent player that not many people knew about, let alone talked about on a daily basis. Today Franzen, or the Mule as players and fans call him, is known throughout the NHL.

Franzen was on a streak at the end of the regular season, and many were unsure if he would continue it as the playoffs began. Well, 27 goals in 27 games later, the Mule is still on his streak.

Franzen leads the NHL with 12 playoff goals, and he ranks second with total points.

Dallas must pay serious attention to the Mule throughout this series if they want to stand a chance in these Western Conference Finals.

However, he is not the only one to watch, with Henrik Zetterberg, Pavel Datsyuk, and Nick Lidstrom still contributing greatly with goals. Detroit has been on a roll after sweeping Colorado and shows no signs of slowing down.

Red Wings-Avalanche: Detroit Shows Why They Deserve The Stanley Cup

Katie Evans — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 08:35:04 -0400

When it was reported that Colorado's Peter Forsberg would not being playing in Game One due to a groin injury many Detroit Red Wings fans where not the least bit surprised.

Forsberg was a member of Colorado when the rivalry was at its prime before he was traded. This year, he was back in Colorado.

The same goes for Darren McCarty, who just recently became a Red Wing again and is well known for the infamous attack on Lemieux that led to "the turtle."

The Colorado Red Wings rivalry that began several years ago has since died down ,but after the injury to Nick Lidstrom there seemed to be a little bit of a flicker to the candle of rivalry that once existed between the two teams.

The Red Wings showed in Game One that they mean business and that they deserve to win the Stanley Cup. It wasn't the first time fans were nail biting into the third when Colorado quickly snuck up on them. But they will not let down the energy that is comes from that team.

Johan Franzen has continued to show his amazing talent after leading the team with not only goals and points in the playoffs, having more than Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg.

Chris Osgood has also been fantastic in net, making amazing saves. One example is his save in the last 10 seconds of Game One.

With the way Detroit has been playing it would not be a surprise to see Detroit make it all the way to the Cup.

One matchup for the Wings that could be interesting would be if it came down to Detroit and Pittsburgh. Both teams have been red-hot in the playoffs and that could lead to a very interesting Stanley Cup finals.

Detroit Red Wings: Female Fans Find Their Own Verison of the Playoff Beard

Katie Evans — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 05:54:01 -0400

As the playoffs grow closer it is known that the hockey players and fans (who decided to participate) await the growth of a "playoff beard". Members from Letsgowings.com, a fan site where Red Wings fans can discuss current games as well as other NHL news, started to discuss the playoff beard and how they would be, as fans, growing beards as well.

Katie Evans and Rabia Asghar, two ladies of the site, wanted to come up with an alternative and fun way that the female fans can support the Detroit Red Wings rally towards the Stanley Cup. With help and some ideas from others an idea was finally created and the "Ladies equivalent to the playoff beard" was created. The rules are simple and its an easy way for the female Red Wings too participate in the annual playoff beard. This also helps fans who cant grow beards because of a job or they simply just cant grow one.

This is all you will need: Embrodirey Floss; which can be bought at almost any craft store in red and white.

When the playoffs begin fans will tie the strings onto their wrist like a bracelet, adding red to represent a win and white for a loss; the goal in the end to have 16 total red strings. Each game whether it being a win or a loss fans will add a new string to show off their support towards their team. Members will also post picture to show off their playoff spirit as well as be known as Red Wing fans.

The Red Wings are not only awaiting the playoffs but the fans as well, so its simple...Are you in?

Nicklas Lidstrom Still in the Running for the Norris Trophy?

Katie Evans — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 10:30:28 -0400

With the hit from Ian Lapierre that sent Nicklas Lidstrom out of the line up for six games many fans thought that Lidstrom could be out of the running for his third straight Norris trophy. After coming back from his knee injury Lidstrom has proven that he can win yet again at this years NHL awards.

With Anaheim Ducks' Chris Pronger out with a suspension there is a very slim chance he could win the Norris. Dion Phaneuf could possible be his biggest competition if you would even consider it competition when it comes to the Norris but there isn't really any other competition to him.

With his fairly quick return to Detroit Lidstrom has proved himself to not only the fans but the league that he deserves another Norris. He has led the team to more victories after the ugly February slump, that Detroit fans had to witness, and he has been setting up plays and doing the same old Nick Lidstrom moves we expect to see game in and game out.

Lidstrom has always been a fan favorite not only in Detroit but to NHL fans throughout the world. Really there is no other choice for the Norris than Lidstrom. He is by far the best defensemen in the game of hockey. They don't call him Norris Nick for nothing.

A Trip to Lakeland: One Fan Follows the Tigers from Detroit to Florida

Katie Evans — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 13:41:43 -0400

Many people wonder what their favorite baseball team does during their offseason. I had the opportunity to travel down to Lakeland, Florida to see the Detroit Tigers prepare for the season to come.

While I was there, the Tigers had a game against the New York Mets, and they came out on top with a 4-2 victory. Pitcher Jeremy Bonderman started the game for the Tigers, but allowed four hits and two runs in the two innings that he pitched. Preston Larrison and Denny Bautista also pitched for the Tigers.

Later in the game, Bonderman could be seen running sprints along the field while the game continued on along with several other players from both teams.

The atmosphere at the game was much different than the regular season games I have experienced. The guys joked around and laughed while playing in the game. The atmosphere was friendly but still competitive, because of the opposing fans scattered throughout the stands.

After being down 2-0 for seven innings, the Tigers began to make a comeback, and some of the Mets fans started to get loud. As the ninth inning came along, some Mets fans took up a rally chant. Nevertheless, the Tigers still came out on top.

What was most interesting for me to experience was how many people wanted to know what it was like living in Detroit and seeing the Tigers play at Comerica. Some wanted to know what there was to do downtown after a game, as well as things like fireworks, and other things Comerica does for its fans after some games.

While some fans had the opportunity to get autographs and meet their favorite players I was not as fortunate. However, he experience was one I will never forget.

While many still continue to wait for the season to begin, going to see your favorite teams in Spring Training is a wonderful experience that everyone should have sometime in their lifetime.

Detroit Red Wings Rally Down the Stretch

Katie Evans — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 12:33:31 -0400

The Detroit Red Wings have lead the Western Conference for what seems like the whole season and now sit atop with an eight-point lead over San Jose; and a 20-point lead over Central Division foe the Nashville Predators.

With a President's Trophy almost in the bag for Detroit they have not only added a top defensemen in Brad Stuart, they are also getting back all of the injured players that they had during their February slump.

The Wings made a great move at the trade deadline by picking up Brad Stuart from the L.A Kings. Stuart will be helping out greatly with the Wings defense which was struggling with injuries in mid-February. Stuart has been playing well and scored his first goal against Nashville along with a 4-3 win.

With the season coming to an end the Red Wings will more than likely be going into the playoffs on top.

If playoffs were to start we would be facing the Vancouver Canucks which could be a fairly easy first round win for the Red Wings. With the Wings dominating three of the four games played against the Canucks this season it could very well be a four game sweep or at least a entertaining series to watch.

With Johan Franzen contributing offensively as of late with six-points in the last four games Franzen could be someone to watch out for in the playoffs.

Another person to be on the lookout during the playoffs would be not only the obvious of Henrik Zetterberg, Pavel Datsyuk, and Nicklas Lidstrom; Daniel Cleary will be returning which will be a huge advantage for Detroit.

After suffering a broken jaw, Cleary will more than likely come back playing as well as he always has. The Wings clearly feel this way as well after signing him to a five year, $14 million dollar contract which may have been one of the best moves that the Wings made this season.

The Wings are again coming up to an eight straight 100-points or more season which is showing that Detroit is the team to beat.

Keep an eye out for them as the playoffs creep up upon us.