League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Alex DeBrincat fights and scores in Red Wings' preseason matchup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 25, 2026, 8:10 AM

Last updated Sep 25, 2026

Alex DeBrincat fights and scores in Red Wings' preseason matchup

Summary

Alex DeBrincat of the Detroit Red Wings engaged in a fight with Trevor Kuntar during a preseason game against the Buffalo Sabres on September 24, 2026, contributing to a 3-2 overtime victory. DeBrincat, who noted the game's intensity, expressed that fighting is not central to his game but he will engage when necessary. Head coach Todd McLellan praised his leadership and competitive spirit, confirming that he would support DeBrincat for his fight rather than reprimanding him. While DeBrincat is set to become an unrestricted free agent in summer 2027, McLellan emphasized the value of DeBrincat's intensity on the ice.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•DeBrincat fought Kuntar in the third period of a preseason game
•He scored the game-winner in overtime against the Sabres
•McLellan supports DeBrincat's fighting as a leadership quality
•The Red Wings aim to solidify team dynamics ahead of the season
•DeBrincat will become an unrestricted free agent in summer 2027

Latest Updates

1:50 PMYahoo Sports — Alex DeBrincat’s Fight Earns Strong Response From Todd McLellan
8:10 AMYahoo Sports — Alex DeBrincat's Honest Take on Fighting Comes With Todd McLellan's Approval

What they're saying

"
Detroit Red Wings forward Alex DeBrincat said that while he dropped the gloves on Thursday evening, it's probably not what the most central element of his game should be.
— Yahoo Sports