SALT LAKE CITY, Utah — The Utah Hockey Club’s push for a playoff spot took a hit Monday night after a tough 5-1 loss to the Detroit Red Wings at the Delta Center.
Despite an early lead from Dylan Guenther, who netted his team-leading 26th goal and reached his 100th career point, Utah struggled to keep pace. Detroit responded with five unanswered goals, sealing the game and keeping Utah six points behind St. Louis in the Western Conference wildcard race.
Defensive Effort Not Enough
Utah defenseman Ian Cole acknowledged the team’s defensive efforts but noted that it ultimately wasn’t enough.
“For the most part, we clogged the middle, blocked shots, and limited chances,” Cole said. “But at the end of the day, they put the puck in the net more than we did.”
Red Wings Capitalize Late
Detroit managed only 14 total shots on goal but made them count, with three goals coming in the third period.
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Elmer Soderblom tied the game at 1-1 early in the first period.
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Marco Kasper gave Detroit the lead in the second period, scoring on a deflection.
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Austin Watson, Alex DeBrincat, and Tyler Motte added goals in the third to put the game out of reach.
DeBrincat, who contributed a goal and an assist, helped Detroit snap a six-game road losing streak. Meanwhile, Utah goaltender Karel Vejmelka faced a tough night, allowing four goals on 13 shots.
Missed Opportunities for Utah
Utah captain Clayton Keller was frustrated by the team’s inability to convert offensive opportunities.
“We had possession and generated chances early,” Keller said. “But we didn’t do enough to capitalize on rebounds or make the most of power plays.”
Despite winning three of their last four games before Monday, Utah’s postseason hopes continue to dwindle. With only a few weeks left in the season, every game becomes crucial in their push for the playoffs.
