from Kevin Allen of Detroit Hockey Now,
One undeniable truth about the NHL is that as the season progresses games become increasingly more intense. Physical play becomes a more important factor.
“One of the advantages we had early in the year,” Detroit coach Jeff Blashill said, “is that we played games like they were playoff games.”
Rookies Moritz Seider and Lucas Raymond brought youthful exuberance and talent. Dylan Larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi had a renewed vigor created by their recovery from last season’s injuries. Confidence seemed high. Players were lifted by the team’s improvement.