Red Wings lose their preseason opener to Columbus in a shootout, 1-0.
Red Wings Fall in Preseason Opener; Backup Goalies Shine
September 22, 2026 · ← Back to rollups
The Detroit Red Wings opened their 2026-27 preseason with a 1-0 shootout loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets Detroit News — Red Wings (via Google News), marking an inauspicious start despite strong goaltending performances. The backup goalies were the standout performers in the exhibition game Detroit Free Press — Red Wings (via Google News), with the team's offense unable to generate enough chances to break through. The Red Wings are aiming to be a tougher, "heavier" team this season, and while the preseason provides an opportunity to build that identity, the opening result underscores the work ahead. New signing Daniil Tarasov chose Detroit as his best option in free agency Detroit Hockey Now, and the team will look to build momentum as they continue their preseason slate with a matchup in Pittsburgh tomorrow @DetroitRedWings.
Articles
Backup goalies deliver standout performances in Detroit's exhibition game against the Blue Jackets.
Goaltender Tarasov viewed the Red Wings as his best free-agent destination this summer.
From the community
Post-game thread captures the Red Wings' shootout loss with full game statistics.
Michal Postava makes a highlight-reel open-ice save during the preseason game.
Morning skate media availability features Carter Mazur, Michael Brandsegg-Nygård, and coach Todd McLellan.
Red Wings announce their next preseason game is tomorrow in Pittsburgh.