Traction is something that can prove elusive this time of year, whether you’re driving the interstate, or you’re the Detroit Red Wings. “Traction is a word,” Detroit coach Derek Lalonde said.

DETROIT – Detroit Red Wings coach Derek Lalonde expressed frustration while lamenting a lack a traction following Sunday’s 5-4 overtime loss to the Vancouver Canucks. The Red Wings are 2-2-2 in their past six and this latest setback was like the others – a game that could have gone in the win column with a break or two and better penalty killing.

Game summary of the Boston Bruins vs. Detroit Red Wings NHL game, final score 3-2, from December 3, 2024 on ESPN.

In this metaphor, the Detroit Red Wings are drafting players from around the world and not monopolizing one geographical area, which is a good thing. Sebastian Cossa, Marco Kasper, Elmer Soderblom, and Carter Mazur are all examples of players who have come up in different junior and European leagues.