Red Wings’ 2010-11 Schedule Announced

The Detroit Red Wings released their 2010-11 season schedule on Tuesday with several expected matchups but one big surprise: Weeknight games at Joe Louis Arena will begin at 7:00 PM.

The Wings will play only one home game at their now-former start time of 7:30, a December 22 tilt against the Vancouver Canucks.

As was announced on Monday, Detroit’s season kicks off at home against the Anaheim Ducks on October 8. Four of their first five games will be the home opener for one of the teams, as they then move on for the Chicago Blackhawks’ banner-raising ceremony on October 9. After hosting the Colorado Avalanche on October 12 they visit the Stars for their first game of the season in Dallas on October 14 and then travel to the home opener for the Phoenix Coyotes on October 16.

After returning home to host the Calgary Flames on October 21, the Red Wings will host the Anaheim for their last home game of the season against the Ducks, just seven games in to the schedule.

Detroit’s annual New Year’s Eve game returns to the schedule, with the Red Wings hosting the New York Islanders.

For the first time in seven seasons, all five of the Red Wings’ Original Six rivals visit Joe Louis Arena. This includes a home-and-home with the Boston Bruins and a season-ending series against the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Red Wings also play the Columbus Blue Jackets in a home-and-home series twice.

Detroit will play on back-to-back nights 14 times and, as per usual, will have to travel between games every time.