What you see tonight in the Detroit Red Wings’ preseason road game against the Toronto Maple Leafs is not what you are going to get opening night against the Montreal Canadiens.

Coach Todd McLellan is still trying to decide who he wants to keep.

He’s unsure about his defense the point that he’s going to use seven defensemen and 11 forwards tonight. Tonight’s group includes D man Axel Sandin Pellikka and Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, which means both are still candidates to make their NHL debut.

Tonight’s lineup in Toronto. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/C3LudE7raz

— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) October 2, 2025

“There’ll be seven defencemen that get the opportunity to play and may open up some ice time for some of the forwards we’re looking at as well,” McLellan said.

The experimenting ends tonight. “When we come home for the game on Saturday,” McLellan said, “we’ll take a look at the lineup that may be closer to what our opening night would look like.”

 

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Coach Todd McLellan is still trying to figure out what his four lines will look like.

James van Riemsdyk didn’t consider putting his job ahead of his family.

Defenseman Simon Edvinsson is a one week ahead of schedule coming back from his lower body injury.

Red Wings Extra

The Grand Rapids Griffins will hold their first practice of the 2025-26 season Monday at 10:30 a.m. at Griff’s IceHouse at Belknap Park in preparation for their 30th anniversary season. The Griffins’ first game is Friday, Oct. 10 at 8 p.m. EDT at the Texas Stars. The Griffins’ home opener at Van Andel Arena is Friday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. against the Manitoba Moose.

Hockey Now Network

Colorado: Aarif Deen of Colorado Hockey Now provides injury updates on Sam Girard and Mackenzie Blackwood. Colorado Avalanche.

Florida: The Panthers signed defenseman Niko Mikkola to an eight-year deal worth $40 million. Florida Panthers. 

New Jersey: Defenseman Luke Hughes signed a seven-year deal for $63 million. New Jersey Devils. 

Pittsburgh: Excuse Penguins for saying “Not again.” Bryan Rust will be sidelined at least two weeks with a lower body injury. Pittsburgh Penguins.