Detroit Red Wings face low expectations heading into new NHL season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 8:00 AM
Last updated Oct 1, 2026

As the Detroit Red Wings prepare for the 2026-27 NHL season, the team is grappling with diminished fan optimism. They recently removed their general manager and have not made the playoffs in over a decade. A survey revealed that Red Wings fans ranked 27th in hope among NHL teams, with only 12% anticipating a run to the Stanley Cup Finals. Coach Todd McLellan acknowledged the need for system changes and emphasized a more aggressive play style. Players aim to channel external skepticism into motivation as the season begins.
- •Red Wings have not made the playoffs in a decade.
- •A recent survey showed fans ranked 27th in NHL hope.
- •Only 12% of fans believe the team will reach the Cup Finals.
- •Coach McLellan emphasizes adjustments to improve team performance.
- •Players aim to use fan skepticism as motivation.
- 8:00 AMYahoo Sports — Hope a Tough Sell For Red Wings
"The captain is no longer the captain, and he also wishes that he could say the same thing about his […]
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