The Detroit Red Wings secured a 4-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers on Sunday afternoon, extending their winning streak to five games. Captain Dylan Larkin scored twice, while rookie Emmitt Finnie notched his first career NHL goal among his two tallies. The win highlighted contributions from depth players amid injuries.
The Detroit Red Wings have found success through varied contributions across their lineup, as evidenced by their latest 4-2 win over the Edmonton Oilers. This victory marks the team's fifth consecutive win following a home opener loss to the Montreal Canadiens on Oct. 9.
Rookie forward Emmitt Finnie shone brightly, scoring twice, including his first career NHL goal. Team captain Dylan Larkin continued his strong form with two goals of his own, helping to neutralize the Oilers' potent offense led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Injuries have tested the Red Wings' depth. Patrick Kane sat out after crashing into the boards during overtime of Friday night's win against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Forward Lucas Raymond, returning after missing the previous two games, started but was not at full strength and briefly left the bench before returning.
Larkin praised the unsung heroes post-game. "Winning in different ways and leadership from all throughout our lineup," he said. He highlighted players like Albert Johansson, whose strong performance on the blue line went under the radar, along with Mason Appleton and James van Riemsdyk (JVR) for their playmaking. "We have guys contributing in ways that aren't on the scoresheet, and when guys are out, we have guys stepping up."
Head coach Todd McLellan emphasized the need for elevation from the roster's lower lines. "We have capable players here," he noted. "Now, nobody wants to lose those two and play without them, but we have capable players further down the lineup. They just have to elevate and play." McLellan challenged a few players pre-game to step up, and he felt they delivered against Edmonton. "They can't hide. They have to give a little bit more... And tonight, I thought they did a good job."