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Capital Punishment: The Red Wings Week Recap

Originally posted on Inside The Rink
By Alexander DeBerardinis | Last updated Dec 24, 2025 2:52 AM ET

Detroit came off a great weekend against the strong Capitals. Washington broke the hearts of Red Wings fans two seasons ago. They jumped into the final playoff spot instead of Detroit. At least for the time being, Red Wings fans felt some catharsis towards the Capitals. On top of that, they also took a game from the Islanders before falling to the Mammoth. After some strong performances, it’s time to take a look back at the biggest story lines of the week. All will be covered in more depth on our Red Wings podcast, Kicking Tires.

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Story Lines This Week:

Detroit Leads the Atlantic After Mom’s Trip: Detroit was joined by the mothers of the Red Wings this week. Safe to say, their energy helped plenty in the games against the Capitals. Along with making some cute social media moments, the moms created an electric atmosphere. This made for a great story throughout the weekend.

John Leonard Impresses in Red Wings Stint: John Leonard was called up as the AHL’s leading goal scorer. He has now reached the NHL. He has made his presence felt at this level. He scored twice this week. He also added one assist. This performance is making a case for him to stay on the team longer than management intended.

Mason Appleton Returns: After missing five games, Mason Appleton returned to the lineup Sunday against the Capitals. He did not record any points. However, it was nice to see the shut-down winger return healthy. His return gives the Red Wings another option at right-wing while Patrick Kane is out.

Patrick Kane Out Until Christmas: Unfortunately, the two game timeline given by coach Todd McClellan seems to have been premature. Patrick Kane will not play again until the Christmas break. This means he will miss the game against the Dallas Stars on Tuesday.

Lucas Raymond Ends Goal Drought: Lucas Raymond scored on the power play Sunday to snap a nine game goal drought. Raymond scored his 11th of the season from Axel Sandin-Pellikka and Emmitt Finnie on a wrist shot from the circle. Lucas Raymond often scores in bunches. Hopefully, he can continue to score goals against a tough Dallas Stars team later this week.

Moritz Seider Game Winner: Seider capped off an incredible weekend scoring an overtime goal at home against Washington. Emmitt Finnie played the puck behind the net for Andrew Copp. Andrew Copp spotted Seider cutting down the wing. Seider then fired home his 6th of the season. This goal gave the Red Wings the win.

Andrew Copp Stays Hot: Copp recorded two assists on Sunday and another two assists on Saturday. Andrew Copp has recorded 11 points in 10 games since moving up to the second line with Alex DeBrincat.

Red Wings Lead Atlantic Division: Against all odds, the Red Wings remain ahead of the pack. They are leading in the Atlantic Division this season. While that can change at any moment it seems, Red Wings fans should choose to relish the moment. Even if I’m constantly worried about it myself.

Red Wings Take on Stars Tuesday: Detroit will face their first real test of the season. They are playing against one of the best teams in the NHL. Dallas and Colorado seem to be the clear-cut top two teams this season. If the Red Wings can seal a game from the Stars, it may be time. We should seriously start believing in this team.

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This article first appeared on Inside The Rink and was syndicated with permission.

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