Red Wings – Wild Postgame Notes

That was a dominating effort from the Red Wings.

You might be able to fault Chris Osgood on the first goal but it was a five-on-three so I’ll cut him some slack. The second goal Mikael Samuelsson just got absolutely burned on. Yeah, he only faced 20 shots or so, but I’m calling that a solid night for Ozzie.

Playing with the lead let Detroit do a lot to prepare for tomorrow in Columbus. Tomas Kopecky was out for for a power play shift late in the game, that’s a sign of resting the top players on the first of back-to-back nights.

Also getting more playing time: Ville Leino and Darren Helm, who I have no idea how the Red Wings are going to keep from sending back to Grand Rapids but they need to find a way, they deserve to be in the NHL. Both have been moving all over the place and Leino’s been showing he’s not afraid to go to the net. His wraparound goal broke Minnesota’s back.

I don’t like that the hit that took Brett Lebda out of the game wasn’t called a charge but at least Derek Meech is healthy and will be able to go tomorrow. Hopefully Lebda’s not hurt too bad, with Brad Stuart out the Red Wings don’t have as much defensive depth as I’m sure they’d like.

No surprise to anyone but Marian Hossa is a machine. No goals tonight but two very nice assists.