Lucas Raymond's Olympic Surge Ignites Red Wings' Playoff Push

Red Wings forward's record-setting assists at 2026 Winter Olympics boost team's postseason hopes

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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Lucas Raymond's outstanding performance during the 2026 Winter Olympics has provided Detroit Red Wings supporters with fresh optimism as the team fights for a playoff spot. His key assist late in the quarterfinal game helped Sweden push the match against Team USA into overtime, underscoring why his Olympic surge is gaining attention amid the Red Wings' critical late-season run.

Why it matters

With just 24 regular-season games remaining, Raymond's elevated play could be crucial for Detroit's postseason chances as the team battles for a playoff spot in a tight Eastern Conference race.

The details

Raymond distinguished himself as one of the tournament's premier players, recording an impressive total of nine points over five games, including becoming the first Swedish skater to post three points in back-to-back Winter Olympic games with NHL players involved. His clutch primary assist to Mika Zibanejad, which forced overtime in the quarterfinal game against the United States, was a testament to his playmaking skill on the biggest stage.

  • On Wednesday, Dylan Larkin scored the opening goal for Team USA following a redirected shot from Jack Hughes.
  • During the overtime period, Quinn Hughes netted the game-winning goal for the Americans, securing their advancement into the semifinals and marking Team USA's first Olympic victory over Sweden since 1960.
  • Over five games, Raymond accumulated an impressive total of nine points, including becoming the first Swedish skater to record three points in back-to-back Winter Olympic games with NHL players involved.

The players

Lucas Raymond

A forward for the Detroit Red Wings who had an outstanding performance during the 2026 Winter Olympics, showcasing his playmaking abilities and helping Sweden advance to the quarterfinals.

Dylan Larkin

A forward for Team USA who scored the opening goal in the quarterfinal game against Sweden.

Jack Hughes

A forward for Team USA who had a redirected shot that led to Dylan Larkin's opening goal.

Mika Zibanejad

A forward for Sweden who scored the game-tying goal in the quarterfinal match against the United States, assisted by Lucas Raymond.

Quinn Hughes

A defenseman for Team USA who scored the game-winning goal in overtime, securing the Americans' advancement to the semifinals.

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What they’re saying

“Red Wings forward Lucas Raymond (0-3—3) became the first skater for Team Sweden to post three points in consecutive #WinterOlympic games with NHL participation and helped his country advance into the quarterfinals at #MilanoCortina2026.”

— NHL Public Relations (Twitter)

What’s next

The Detroit Red Wings stand at 33-19-6 with 72 points, tied for second place in the Atlantic Division, and only seven points ahead of the Columbus Blue Jackets, who currently sit outside the Wild Card positions. With the Eastern Conference playoff race still very competitive, maintaining momentum is essential for the Red Wings. Lucas Raymond's ability to replicate his Olympic form could provide Detroit with the offensive spark needed to secure more wins down the stretch.

The takeaway

Lucas Raymond's outstanding performance at the 2026 Winter Olympics has provided a much-needed boost to the Detroit Red Wings' playoff push, showcasing his playmaking abilities and record-setting assists. If Raymond can carry this momentum into the NHL's final stretch, it could be the key to the Red Wings securing their first postseason berth since 2016.