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Red Wings’ Playoff Hopes Slip as McLellan Questions Effort

Heavy use of John Gibson leaves Detroit exposed entering a four-game gauntlet.

Detroit Red Wings goaltender John Gibson (36) looks on during the second period against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
Feb 28, 2026; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Detroit Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan walks across the ice after their loss against the Carolina Hurricanes during the third period at Lenovo Center. Mandatory Credit: James Guillory-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Detroit, which opens in Pittsburgh on Tuesday, sits about one point out of a playoff spot with nine games left against a tough slate that includes the Penguins, Flyers, Rangers and Wild.
  • Following Saturday’s flat loss to Philadelphia, coach Todd McLellan said the team still lacks intensity in practice and noted there are too many “jerseys” not contributing.
  • Starter John Gibson has cooled after a heavy post‑Olympic workload, posting four wins in 12 March appearances with a .904 save percentage and a 2.62 goals‑against average.
  • Backup Cam Talbot has played sparingly due to a minor tweak and recent form, and the weekend back‑to‑back against New York and Minnesota may force Detroit to lean on him for relief.
  • Management’s moves face scrutiny as Detroit recalled AHL scorer Carter Mazur to spark the middle six and the Justin Faulk deal — which cost an unprotected first‑round pick and Dmitri Buchelnikov — looms larger if the team falls short.