Red Wings open season 0-2 for first time since last playoff run, with lineup combinations still being sorted out.
Ilitch Addresses Fan Frustration as Winless Wings Regroup
October 6, 2026 · ← Back to rollups
The Detroit Red Wings began their 2026-27 season in troubling fashion, starting 0-2 for the first time since their last playoff appearance Detroit Hockey Now, and the early struggles have drawn sharp criticism from the fanbase. Red Wings owner Chris Ilitch responded to the mounting frustration on social media, acknowledging fan concerns and pledging to address the team's issues Detroit Free Press — Red Wings (via Google News). Meanwhile, on the ice, the team continues to tinker with its lineup; forward Finnie has emerged as a potential play driver, sparking a line alongside DeBrincat and Brandsegg-Nygard Detroit News — Red Wings (via Google News). Off the ice, there's also been organizational movement, with Kris Draper transitioning from amateur to pro scouting duties. The early-season stumble has left the organization and its supporters searching for answers, though the team is wary of the season snowballing into a deeper crisis.
On the trade front, there's been speculation about the team's roster flexibility, with Simon Edvinsson drawing interest from Utah as a potential trade target @frank_seravalli. The Wings' front office faces pressure to make meaningful moves while managing the expectations of an increasingly frustrated fanbase that has grown weary of empty promises.
Articles
Owner Chris Ilitch acknowledges fan frustration over early-season struggles and commits to addressing concerns.
Forward Finnie's speed has energized a top-six line with DeBrincat and Brandsegg-Nygard as Detroit searches for offensive spark.
From the community
Utah Mammoth emerge as a potential suitor for defenseman Simon Edvinsson in trade speculation.
Fan frustration mounts as owner's words ring hollow without concrete on-ice improvements to back them up.