Red Wings fall in shootout, playoff hopes dim

Coach laments 'it wasn't our night' as team loses ground in postseason race

Apr. 9, 2026 at 1:02am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the chaotic action of a hockey game, with players' forms breaking down into expressive brushstrokes.A loss in a crucial late-season game further complicates the Red Wings' playoff push.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Red Wings' playoff hopes took another hit with a shootout loss at home, further damaging their chances of reaching the postseason. The team struggled throughout the game and was unable to secure a crucial victory in the tight race for the final playoff spots.

Why it matters

The Red Wings are in a tight battle to earn one of the remaining playoff berths in the Western Conference, and this defeat represents a missed opportunity to gain ground on their rivals. As the season winds down, each game becomes more crucial for the team's postseason aspirations.

The details

The Red Wings were unable to hold onto a late lead, allowing the opposing team to force overtime and eventually win the game in a shootout. Coach Mike Babcock lamented his team's performance, saying 'it just wasn't our night' as they struggled to generate offense and capitalize on their chances.

  • The game took place on April 9, 2026.

The players

Mike Babcock

Head coach of the Detroit Red Wings.

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What they’re saying

“It wasn't our night. We had our chances but just couldn't finish. That's a tough one to swallow.”

— Mike Babcock, Head Coach

What’s next

The Red Wings will look to bounce back in their next game as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the final weeks of the season.

The takeaway

This defeat is a setback for the Red Wings in their quest to reach the postseason, but they will need to regroup quickly and find a way to win their remaining games if they hope to secure a playoff berth.