The Detroit Red Wings may have picked up a badly needed victory on Thursday against the New York Islanders, but those good feelings were short-lived.
They were defeated tonight by the Boston Bruins at Little Caesars Arena, a 2-1 final score that dropped Detroit's record in the last five games to 1-3-1, earning just three of a possible 10 points.
Additionally, the loss widened the gap in the Atlantic Division standings between the Red Wings (18 points) and Bruins (23 points).
It was especially frustrating for the fans to see the Red Wings fumble the puck multiple times and fail to generate any sustained offensive zone pressure, registering a mere four shots on goaltender Jeremy Swayman in the third period.
The venting began on X after the Red Wings posted the final score, with fans continuing to call for Lalonde's dismissal.
Red Wings fans will also note that the Bruins are now a perfect 2-0 since they parted ways with coach Jim Montgomery, and many are understandably thinking Detroit could enjoy the same results.
The Bruins took an early lead on Saturday after Justin Brazeau deflected a shot from Tyler Johnson past goaltender Cam Talbot in the first period for the game's opening goal.
Detroit Red Wings forward Lucas Raymond sniped his second goal in as many games past Jeremy Swayman late in the first period, tying the score.
Both teams were scoreless in the second period, trading key chances on both ends of the ice.
But soon after a controversial icing call that favored the Bruins, notorious Boston captain (and professional pest) Brad Marchand roofed a shot past the glove of Talbot midway through the third, which eventually proved to be the winning goal.
The Red Wings also failed to convert on five separate power play opportunities.
POLL | ||
Was tonight's loss to the Bruins the final nail in the coffin for Derek Lalonde as Red Wings coach? | ||
Yes, that was it. | 51 | 48.6 % |
No, Steve Yzerman will give him more time. | 54 | 51.4 % |
List of polls |