Red Wings' Todd McLellan offers huge test to players ahead of final road trip game vs. Golden Knights Tuesday
Photo credit: NHL.com
Tuesday's game against the Vegas Golden Knights will be a big test for the Detroit Red Wings, according to head coach Todd McLellan and captain Dylan Larkin.
The Detroit Red Wings will end a five-game road trip tonight in Las Vegas against Jack Eichel, Mitch Marner, and the Golden Knights.
Taking points out of a tough matchup is crucial for organizations looking to make the playoffs, especially with the high parity level in the Eastern Conference.
So far, the Wings have had a 3-1 record on the road trip, and although any team would be satisfied with three wins and two losses, McLellan wants more.
Todd McLellan To Test His Players Against Golden Knights; Dylan Larkin Opens Up
Currently 2nd in the Atlantic Division, all games are important for the Wings. McLellan didn't hesitate to challenge his players ahead of the game.
Here's what he said to reporters yesterday after practice:
«The trip's not over. It's like we're putting a bow on it, and there's nothing worse than that.
You classify it as a successful trip to this point, but there's a lot of teams in the league that will go 3-2 on a five-game road trip. You just become average if you just blend in.
We're going to challenge the guys to come up with their best (Tuesday), and we'll see what happens.»
You classify it as a successful trip to this point, but there's a lot of teams in the league that will go 3-2 on a five-game road trip. You just become average if you just blend in.
We're going to challenge the guys to come up with their best (Tuesday), and we'll see what happens.»
He also shared his thoughts on the Golden Knights, qualifying them as one of the best teams in the NHL:
«I would view Vegas as one of the top teams in the league. Certainly, for years, they seem to make moves in the summer that keep them relevant.
Mitch Marner is a huge addition for them, but prior to that, they added Tomas Hertl. They've got some size, they play a well-rounded game. They don't give up much at all. So you really have to earn your offensive opportunities, and you better be alert defensively.
In my mind, they're one of the teams that could hoist the Cup at the end of the year.»
Mitch Marner is a huge addition for them, but prior to that, they added Tomas Hertl. They've got some size, they play a well-rounded game. They don't give up much at all. So you really have to earn your offensive opportunities, and you better be alert defensively.
In my mind, they're one of the teams that could hoist the Cup at the end of the year.»
Dylan Larkin, who leads the team in points with 18, is up for the challenge:
«I'm excited that it wraps up in Vegas against a team like this. It's going to be a huge test.»
More to come.
Previously on Red Wings Insider
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