from Bob Duff of Detroit Hockey Now,

It’s known that Yzerman respects Blashill’s ability as a teacher to their young players. However, there have been some alarming examples this season of the Wings not bringing their compete level to the ice on game night. In past campaigns, that was not a criticism that could often be attached to a Blashill-coached club.

“That simply can’t happen with our hockey team,” Blashill acknowledged. “We got work to do.”

Detroit has also slipped from 20th in the NHL in goals against per game in 2021 all the way down to 30th in the league this season (3.70). The Wings have allowed an NHL-high six goals or more per game an NHL-high 11 times this season.

Compete level and defensive responsibility are as much about commitment and work ethic as they are about raw talent. Should these be viewed as indications that the players are beginning to tune out Blashill’s messaging?

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