Red Wings' MVP Debate Heats Up as Playoff Push Continues

NHL.com writers weigh in on who has been the most valuable player for Detroit this season

Mar. 16, 2026 at 4:00am

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As the Detroit Red Wings make a push for their first playoff berth in 10 years, a panel of NHL.com writers debated who has been the team's most valuable player this season. Candidates include forwards Alex DeBrincat, Dylan Larkin, and Lucas Raymond, as well as defenseman Moritz Seider and goaltender John Gibson.

Why it matters

The Red Wings' potential return to the playoffs after a decade-long drought would be a major milestone for the franchise and its passionate fanbase in 'Hockeytown.' Identifying the team's MVP is crucial to understanding the key drivers behind their resurgence and potential postseason run.

The details

The writers highlighted several standout performers for the Red Wings this season. Alex DeBrincat has been a consistent scorer, nearing career-high numbers from his time with the Chicago Blackhawks. John Gibson has provided reliable goaltending after a slow start, helping the team surge to the top of the Atlantic Division. Dylan Larkin, the Red Wings' captain, has been the emotional leader and a top-scoring threat when healthy. Lucas Raymond, a 2020 first-round pick, has built on his impressive rookie campaign. And Moritz Seider, the reigning Calder Trophy winner, has anchored the defense and driven play at both ends of the ice.

  • The Red Wings (36-23-8) currently hold a wild-card position in the Eastern Conference with 15 games remaining on their schedule.
  • Detroit has not made the playoffs since losing to the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first round of the 2016 playoffs.
  • The Red Wings will host the Calgary Flames at Little Caesars Arena in the Prime Monday Night Hockey showcase on March 16, 2026 (7:00 p.m. ET).

The players

Alex DeBrincat

A forward for the Detroit Red Wings who is nearing career-high numbers in goals and points this season.

John Gibson

The Red Wings' goaltender who has provided reliable and rejuvenated play in net, helping the team surge to the top of the Atlantic Division.

Dylan Larkin

The Red Wings' captain and a top-scoring threat who has been the emotional leader of the team.

Lucas Raymond

A forward for the Red Wings who is having another standout season and is currently tied for the team lead in scoring.

Moritz Seider

The Red Wings' defenseman who leads the team in average ice time, blocks, and plus-minus rating, and is a top-tier blueliner in the NHL.

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What they’re saying

“The steady contributions make DeBrincat my MVP for Detroit.”

— Tracey Myers, staff writer (NHL.com)

“Because of him it looks like there's going to be playoff hockey in Hockeytown for the first time in a decade.”

— Adam Kimelman, deputy managing editor (NHL.com)

“Expect the Red Wings to once again soar.”

— Shawn P. Roarke, senior director of editorial (NHL.com)

What’s next

The Red Wings will host the Calgary Flames at Little Caesars Arena in the Prime Monday Night Hockey showcase on March 16, 2026 (7:00 p.m. ET), as they continue their push for the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Red Wings' potential return to the playoffs after a decade-long drought would be a remarkable achievement, and the debate over the team's MVP this season highlights the depth of talent and contributions that have fueled their resurgence. Regardless of who is ultimately named the MVP, the Red Wings' success is a testament to the collective effort of the entire roster.