Dec 4, 2025; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Detroit Red Wings right wing Alex DeBrincat (93) celebrates his goal against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the third period at Nationwide Arena. Mandatory Credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Russell LaBounty-Imagn Images

The Detroit Red Wings must fix a few key areas of their game if they don’t want to see their playoff hopes quickly diminish as we near the third of the season.

Detroit Red Wings fans didn’t get to see their favorite team in the playoffs for the past nine years, and if the team wants to avoid extending that stretch to a full decade, a lot must change.

Red Wings Must Work On Precise Areas Of Their Game To Avoid Missing Playoffs Once Again

On paper, the Wings are already out of a playoff spot at the moment.

However, with the parity across the Eastern Conference this season, things could change anytime.

But if the team wants to get in the top three of their division, or in a wild card spot, there are a few things to work on.

They must start the game on time and compete for 60 minutes: the Wings rank 32nd for goals scored in the first period, with only 17 after 28 games.

They are tied with the Colorado Avalanche for most goals scored in the second period, with 38, suggesting they could be among the top NHL organizations if they adjust their first periods.

In other words: urgency must be felt in the lineup.

Also, they allow too many goals to their opponents.

This season, only the St. Louis Blues and Edmonton Oilers have allowed more goals so far, with 100. The Wings are at 99.

Finally, the team must be able to stand up even if the other team takes a lead. So far, the Wings have allowed more than one goal in the span of five minutes or less on 21 occasions this year.

Here’s what Lucas Raymond and Todd McLellan had to say about these issues:

“We got to have a better sense of urgency. We have to be better than that. We know it. We’ve got to have better game management.” – Lucas Raymond

“There are boatloads of teams that win games scoring three (goals). It’s a three-goal league over and over and over again. You get punched, you want to throw a jab quickly back at them and stay on your feet.” – Todd McLellan

Stay tuned for further news related to the Red Wings.

Previously on Detroit Hockey Insider

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Red Wings must fix these key areas before their playoff hopes quickly fall out of sight

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