Tampa, Fla. — In their first game since officially being eliminated from the playoffs, the Red Wings did what they’ve done too often this season.
That is, losing another game, Thursday losing 5-3 to the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Lightning swept the season series against the Red Wings, winning all five games. Tampa has also now defeated the Red Wings seven consecutive times in the regular season — and nine consecutive games at home over the Red Wings.
Playing their fourth game in five days — and fifth in seven days — the Red Wings showed good energy considering the schedule, but simply made too many self-inflicted wounds.