DETROIT — In a thrilling matchup on Thursday night, Kevin Stenlund’s goal early in the third period helped secure a 4-2 triumph for the Utah Hockey Club over Detroit, marking the Red Wings’ fourth consecutive defeat. Stenlund broke a 24-game goal drought with his key score, while contributions also came from Dylan Guenther, Nick Schmaltz, and Lawson Crouse, powering Utah to their fourth win in five games. Demonstrating his value, goaltender Karel Vejmelka, who had just signed a five-year contract extension, put on a stellar performance with 38 saves.
The Red Wings saw goals from Dylan Larkin and Jonatan Berggren in the first period, but ultimately could not withstand Utah’s offensive pressure. Detroit goaltender Alex Lyon faced 15 shots throughout the game. The Red Wings have struggled on home ice recently, going 1-4-1 in their last six home contests.
Significantly aiding Utah’s defense, Vejmelka’s save tally included fending off six power play attempts from Detroit, who boast the league’s second-ranked power play. Utah successfully killed three penalties, showcasing their resilience on the penalty kill.
A challenging moment for the Red Wings occurred when Carter Mazur, making his NHL debut, exited the game early. The young forward, who had been called up from the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins, suffered an upper-body injury just two shifts into the contest. The injury cut short what was meant to be a special night witnessed by his family and friends.
Stenlund’s game-deciding goal came through a bit of fortune. Michael Kesselring managed to free the puck from the boards, with it ricocheting off a defenseman’s skate and conveniently landing on Stenlund’s stick. He capitalized by scoring from the right circle, giving Utah a 3-2 lead just 2:55 into the third period.
Celebrating a personal milestone, Utah’s Clayton Keller hit the 300 career assist mark with a pass that facilitated Schmaltz’s power-play goal in the second period. Keller’s phenomenal playmaking ability is evident this season with 48 assists, along with amassing 13 points over the past eight games.
Looking ahead, Utah is set to take on Chicago on Friday night. Meanwhile, the Red Wings will be seeking redemption when they face Washington the same evening.
