Detroit Red Wings Prepare for Upcoming Preseason Split-Squad Games
Detroit Red Wings Split-Squad Preseason Overview
BUFFALO -- The Detroit Red Wings will split their expanded Training Camp roster for preseason games against the Pittsburgh Penguins at Little Caesars Arena and the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center on Monday night.
Puck drop for both contests is set for 7 p.m., with streaming available on DetroitRedWings.com and the Red Wings Mobile App.
“It actually works fine,” Red Wings head coach Derek Lalonde said. “You get the two teams going. I don’t know if it’s ideal, it’s six games in six days. It’ll be a little taxing on a couple guys, but we’re pretty spread out where it’s going to work.”
Lalonde and his coaching staff had to assemble two rosters after Saturday’s home game was rescheduled due to travel issues faced by the Penguins.
“The guys got Saturday night and then Sunday off,” Lalonde remarked. “It flows actually fairly well.”
Patrick Kane is set to make his preseason debut against Pittsburgh on Monday, noting that split-squad exhibition matches are not unusual.
“I think you see teams do it, especially throughout preseason,” Kane stated. “A little bit different of a day [on Saturday]. I’m sure the coaches are busy with having two teams and another game tomorrow.”
Lalonde indicated that goalie Cam Talbot will play the first two periods in Detroit, while goalie Alex Lyon will handle the first 40 minutes in Buffalo, followed by their respective backups.
“I’ll watch [Monday’s road game] back,” Lalonde said. “We’re still building our camp, some structure. This will be unique but good. I don’t mind the eight games because it gives us time to work on some things and get a lot of guys looks.”
Coaching staff from the Grand Rapids Griffins will guide the players at KeyBank Center, providing an excellent development opportunity.
“Even our ECHL head coach Pat Mikesch will take the bench with Dan Watson,” Lalonde noted. “I think it’s a unique experience; the video and goalie coaches are a lot of growth in itself.”
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