Fed-up Detroit Red Wings fans blast Derek Lalonde's tone-deaf comments
The frustration level of Detroit Red Wings fans is reaching a breaking point following another loss to the rival Ottawa Senators, especially after the game's first 10 minutes equaled a disturbing pattern.
While the Detroit Red Wings had the chance to earn another point in the standings, it went for naught last night against the Ottawa Senators thanks to the go-ahead goal from Josh Norris with just 41.6 seconds left in the third period.
The goal broke a 1-1 tie, and the Red Wings were once again defeated by the Senators; Detroit's division foe now has four wins over them since the start of last year.
What was even more frustrating was the fact that not only did the Red Wings show a lack of discipline by making five separate trips to the penalty box (a terrible idea considering their League-worst and historically bad penalty killing) but once again were in a slumber for the first half of the opening 20 minutes of play.
The Senators outshot the Red Wings 9-0 before Detroit got their first attempt on goaltender Linus Ullmark, who won for just the second time since mid-November.
Coach Derek Lalonde's comments to reporters painted a different picture, once again choosing to look at underlying numbers and analytics.
I liked all of our guys, we outchanced them five-on-five.
Points in six of eight games (now nine), and a lot of positives in our game.
But there are moments we can manage our game better. We are doing some positive things and executing, but we're sitting here and trying to get some traction.
Fans in the comment section of the team's YouTube channel blasted his comments, many expressing disbelief that a change in leadership hasn't been made yet.
15 of 16 in the Conference, 28 of 32 in the Leaguewhy does the coach still have a job???
It's sickening that Lalonde keeps referring to analytics and winning statistical battles. The Wings 5 on 5 play for 40 minutes was a joke. They do not look like an NHL hockey team.
Something needs to change. This team isn't fun to watch. It's horrible hockey. These systems are a joke.
"We've been gobbling up some points." Is Lalonde actually watching the games?
While Lalonde may appreciate some of the underlying numbers that paint a more positive picture, the fact remains that the Red Wings are once again near the bottom of the Eastern Conference.
Even more frustrating was seeing Detroit seemingly unprepared to play for a critical divisional matchup.
POLL |
DECEMBRE 6 | 165 ANSWERS Fed-up Detroit Red Wings fans blast Derek Lalonde's tone-deaf comments Will Detroit Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde remain in his position through the end of this season? |
Yes, Steve Yzerman has no plans to make a switch. | 52 | 31.5 % |
No, the Red Wings have to shake things up. | 113 | 68.5 % |
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Previously on Red Wings Insider