Red Wings Eliminated from NHL Playoffs for 10th Straight Year

New Jersey Devils defeat Detroit 5-3 in final regular season game

Apr. 12, 2026 at 5:42am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game between the Detroit Red Wings and New Jersey Devils, with the players and action broken down into sharp, overlapping planes of red, white, and black.The Red Wings' latest playoff elimination continues a decade-long decline for the once-dominant franchise, raising questions about the team's direction and ability to return to relevance in the NHL.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Red Wings have failed to make the NHL playoffs for the 10th consecutive season after losing 5-3 to the New Jersey Devils in their final regular season game. Jesper Bratt scored twice for the Devils, including the game-winning goal in the third period.

Why it matters

The Red Wings' long playoff drought highlights the team's struggles to rebuild and return to the postseason after their dynastic run in the 1990s and 2000s. Failing to make the playoffs for a decade is a major disappointment for the storied franchise and its loyal fanbase.

The details

The Red Wings took a 3-2 lead in the third period, but the Devils rallied with three unanswered goals, including Jesper Bratt's second of the game to give New Jersey the victory. The loss officially eliminated Detroit from playoff contention, extending their postseason drought to 10 straight seasons.

  • The Red Wings' regular season finale against the Devils took place on April 12, 2026.

The players

Jesper Bratt

A forward for the New Jersey Devils who scored two goals, including the game-winner, to defeat the Red Wings.

Detroit Red Wings

An NHL franchise based in Detroit, Michigan that has failed to make the playoffs for the last 10 consecutive seasons.

New Jersey Devils

An NHL team based in Newark, New Jersey that defeated the Red Wings 5-3 in the final game of the regular season.

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What they’re saying

“It's been a frustrating decade for this franchise and our fans. We have to find a way to get back to the playoffs and give our city something to cheer about again.”

— Steve Yzerman, General Manager, Detroit Red Wings

What’s next

The Red Wings will enter the offseason looking to make major changes to their roster and coaching staff in order to end their long playoff drought. The 2026 NHL Draft will be an important opportunity for the team to acquire young talent to build around.

The takeaway

The Red Wings' failure to reach the playoffs for 10 straight seasons is a clear sign that the once-dominant franchise is in need of a complete overhaul. With loyal fans growing increasingly frustrated, the pressure is on the team's management to quickly turn things around and restore the team to its former glory.