The good news is that Detroit Red Wings goaltender Jonathan Bernier became the first goaltender since Jimmy Howard in 2010 to record 50 saves in a game.
The bad news is that not only did they not win the game, but only managed six shots through the first two periods of play.
Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn scored 32 seconds into overtime, giving his team a critical two points in the standings. Meanwhile, the Red Wings were officially eliminated from playoff contention.
“It’s tough to come out and have a performance like this and not win,” Bernier said.
It was a turnover by defenseman Filip Hronek in the extra session that opened the door for Benn’s winner, a “needless chance” that head coach Jeff Blashill lamented.
“You get into overtime and it’s always bitter when you lose, especially when you give up a needless chance like that,” Blashill said. “We have to execute better in those situations.”
For Blashill, it was as simple as not being able to generate any chances or get the puck into Dallas’ end. Halfway through the 2nd period, the shots were an astounding 34-3 in favor of the opposition.
“Two different periods for me,” Blashill said. “I thought the first period it wasn’t as indicative. We passed up a few shots and had a few real chances. The first period was fine. The second period they were in our end the whole time. We couldn’t get the puck into their end. We just kept defending over and over and over again.”
The Red Wings have six games remaining on their schedule, and they’ll next play against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday night.
– – Quotes via Bally Sports Detroit Link – –
