The Detroit Red Wings continued their impressive surge Thursday night, defeating the Florida Panthers 5-2 in a game fueled by a dominant power play and a stellar performance from captain Dylan Larkin. Larkin scored twice, including an empty-netter, and added an assist as Detroit won its eighth game in the last nine outings.
Jonatan Berggren and Patrick Kane joined Larkin in scoring power-play goals for the Red Wings, while Marco Kasper added another tally. Goaltender Cam Talbot was a wall in net, stopping 40 shots to secure the win.
For the Panthers, Anton Lundell and Evan Rodrigues found the back of the net, but Florida’s struggles continued as they fell to 4-6-1 in their last 11 games. Goalie Sergei Bobrovsky was pulled in the second period after allowing four goals on just 15 shots, giving way to Spencer Knight, who finished the game in relief.
Detroit’s power play has been unstoppable lately, a stark improvement since Todd McLellan took over as head coach. Patrick Kane’s goal in the second period marked the team’s 17th power-play goal in their last 32 opportunities—a remarkable turnaround considering they had just 17 power-play goals in their previous 78 chances.
Dylan Larkin was a key part of this success, earning an assist on Kasper’s second-period goal, which capped off a three-goal middle frame for Detroit. Larkin’s empty-netter with 1:22 remaining sealed the win, giving him a multi-point night and solidifying his role as the Red Wings’ offensive leader.
Sergei Bobrovsky’s inconsistent season took another hit, as he was pulled with 4:19 left in the second period after Kasper’s goal. This marked the second time this season the Panthers have had to make an in-game goalie change, the first being a similar scenario against Minnesota on Oct. 22.
Florida’s penalty kill was exposed, allowing three power-play goals, and their offense failed to capitalize on numerous chances, despite outshooting Detroit 42-28.
Larkin’s assist on Kasper’s goal in the second period stood out as a turning point. It was Larkin’s second multi-point period of the season, showcasing his ability to deliver under pressure. His leadership, paired with Detroit’s newfound power-play efficiency, has been instrumental in their recent success.
Teams with at least three power-play goals in a game are 27-4-1 this season. Detroit’s ability to execute with the man advantage continues to set them apart during this hot streak.
The Red Wings continue their four-game road trip Saturday as they visit the Tampa Bay Lightning. Meanwhile, the Panthers will aim to regroup as they close out a two-game homestand Saturday against the Anaheim Ducks.
With their power play firing on all cylinders and contributions coming from across the lineup, the Red Wings look poised to continue climbing in the standings. For Florida, addressing defensive lapses and stabilizing their goaltending will be critical to reversing their recent struggles.