Red Wings' Playoff Hopes Fade as Season Winds Down

Players and coach express frustration over team's dim postseason prospects

Apr. 8, 2026 at 10:17am

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The Detroit Red Wings' playoff hopes took another hit as the team faces an uphill battle to reach the postseason. Players like Dylan Larkin and Justin Faulk expressed their disappointment, with Faulk saying the team 'pretty much have to win out' to have a chance at making the playoffs.

Why it matters

The Red Wings have been a storied franchise, but have struggled in recent seasons to return to the playoffs. Failing to make the postseason again would be a major disappointment for the team and its loyal fanbase in Detroit.

The details

The Red Wings' latest loss has left them with a slim path to the playoffs, needing to win out the rest of their games to have a chance. The team's top players, including captain Dylan Larkin and defenseman Justin Faulk, were visibly frustrated after the game, acknowledging the team's uphill battle.

  • The Red Wings played their latest game on April 7, 2026.
  • With just a few games left in the regular season, the Red Wings' playoff hopes are dwindling.

The players

Dylan Larkin

The Red Wings' captain and star center, who has been with the team since 2016.

Justin Faulk

A veteran defenseman for the Red Wings, known for his two-way play and leadership on the team.

Todd McLellan

The head coach of the Detroit Red Wings, in his third season with the team.

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What they’re saying

“We felt we had to go a certain record”

— Justin Faulk, Defenseman

What’s next

The Red Wings have a tough remaining schedule, with several must-win games against playoff contenders. Their postseason fate will likely come down to the final games of the regular season.

The takeaway

The Red Wings' struggle to return to the playoffs is a disappointment for the storied franchise and its passionate fanbase in Detroit. The team's players and coach know they have an uphill battle, but are determined to fight to the end in hopes of keeping their slim postseason hopes alive.