Denver - The Colorado Avalanche are a powerful offensive team, the best scoring team in the NHL, and for an opponent, there is no better team to test yourself defensively.
The Red Wings had their opportunity Friday, lost 7-3, and came away knowing there's a lot of work to do defensively.
"It was a litmus test for us defensively and we know we have to grow and get better," coach Jeff Blashill said.
The Wings (13-12-3) have lost their last three games, and have been outscored 18-7 in the process. They continue to have difficulty winning away from Little Caesars Arena, with a dismal 4-9-1 record.