NEWARK, NJ - DECEMBER 27: Detroit Red Wings head coach Jeff Blashill gives players direction during the third period against the New Jersey Devils at the Prudential Center on December 27, 2017 in Newark, New Jersey. The Devils defeated the Red WIngs 3-1. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
They’re not going to be a Stanley Cup Champion, and certainly the word contender can’t be used quite yet. But there has absolutely been a step forward in terms of the resolve shown after the first four games.
We all remember Detroit started the season 3-1 last season before losing eight in a row, which foreshadowed just how brutal of a season it would be.