Derek Lalonde loved the ‘amazing’ performance from Detroit Red Wings goaltender Alex Lyon…
Coach Derek Lalonde commended the outstanding performance of Detroit Red Wings goaltender Alex Lyon, highlighting his pivotal role in the team’s recent victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite facing the challenge of losing their starting goaltender for an extended period, the Red Wings not only remained competitive but also secured the 2nd wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. Lyon, initially the third option on the goaltending depth chart, has emerged as a key player for the team.
In the game against the Golden Knights at Little Caesars Arena, Dylan Larkin opened the scoring with his 200th career goal, followed by Jake Walman’s 10th goal of the season. Although Vegas responded with two quick goals from Ivan Barbashev and Paul Cotter, equalizing the score at 2-2, Detroit regained the lead with a power play goal from Joe Veleno. The team held on to secure a 5-2 victory, with Andrew Copp extending his hot streak by scoring his second goal in as many games during the third period and Larkin adding his second goal into the empty net. Lyon’s solid performance included 28 saves, earning him his 13th win of the season.
Derek Lalonde expressed his admiration for Lyon’s goaltending prowess, emphasizing the goalie’s remarkable performance in his 12th start in the last 13 games. Lalonde acknowledged a slight concern after Lyon’s initial performance but praised his resilience in the second and third periods, describing him as a “beast” on the ice. Lalonde attributed the team’s recent success not only to improved practice and translating skills to games but also to the exceptional play of Alex Lyon.
The goaltender Lyon has thrived in the increased workload, stepping up admirably in the absence of starter Ville Husso, who has been sidelined due to a lower-body ailment since the previous month. Lyon expressed his enjoyment in taking on the role of starter, emphasizing his growing comfort with the team. Lyon acknowledged the mental challenges the upcoming break for the NHL All-Star festivities might bring but stressed the importance of staying sharp and focused, considering there is still a substantial amount of hockey left in the season.
As the Red Wings rebounded from a challenging December, which led to a slide in the standings, they have shown resilience and determination in the early months of 2024. Currently, they hold the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, marking a significant turnaround.
The team faces one more game against its division rivals, the Ottawa Senators, before heading into the All-Star break. The success of the Red Wings is attributed to not only improved practice and the translation of skills to games but also to the exceptional goaltending performances of Alex Lyon, who has proven to be a valuable asset in the absence of the injured Ville Husso.
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