The Daily: Red Wings Playoff Race Will Be Fun?; Zadina on Sharks’ Top Line

Detroit Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde isn’t promising fans a playoff berth. But he does pledge an entertaining run at it.

“I don’t know if we’re a playoff team, but we’re gonna have a heck of a lot of fun finding out,” Lalonde said.

Bob Duff used that quote in his Red Wings story about the excitement  Detroit players and coaches are feeling about the season, which starts this week with games Thursday in New Jersey and Saturday at home against the Tampa Bay Lightning.  For the second summer in a row, GM Steve Yzerman has brought in a handful of free agents. Everyone admits that they don’t know exactly how this will work out this season, but are eager to get the party started.

Meanwhile, former Detroit player Filip Zadina is thankful for his fresh start with the San Jose Sharks. The San Jose faithful believe Zadina will score some goals for the Sharks.

Red Wings Next Game

Detroit opens the season Thursday on the road against the New Jersey Devils. Ville Husso will start in goal.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

• Detroit prospect Axel Sandin Pellikka began playing defense just to get into a hockey camp.
• Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde believes this season will be “fun” for fans to watch his team chase a playoff spot.
• The NHL allows teams to carry a 23-person roster, but the Red Wings decided to use a 22-game roster at least to start the season.

Hockey Now Network

Colorado: Like the Red Wings, the Colorado Avalanche are carrying three goalies. For now.

Chicago: Connor Bedard has an assist, five shots on goal, and a come-from-behind win in his NHL debut Tuesday for the Chicago Blackhawks.

Montreal: Marco D’Amico has five hot takes to help launch the Montreal Canadiens‘ season.

Philadelphia: Sam Carchidi writes that Matvei Michkov’s legend is growing in Russia. The Philadelphia Flyers draft pick has superstar potential.

San Jose: Sheng Peng reports that Filip Zadina has been practicing on the San Jose Sharks’ top line.