The Detroit Red Wings secured a crucial 5-3 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes, keeping their playoff hopes alive. Scoring contributions came from Ben Chiarot, Marco Kasper, Patrick Kane, and Michael Rasmussen, allowing the Wings to move within four points of the Eastern Conference's second wild-card spot. After a strong start, the Wings held a three-goal lead before the Hurricanes fought back, narrowing the gap to just one goal late in the third period. However, Alex DeBrincat sealed the win with an empty-net goal. With this win, the Red Wings show resilience, albeit still with challenges ahead in their playoff pursuit.

Trevor Zegras has completed his three-game suspension following a high hit on Michael Rasmussen during a recent match against the Detroit Red Wings. Despite only 16 points this season, Zegras is recognized as a crucial offensive driver for the Anaheim Ducks, and his absence has been keenly felt, contributing to a lackluster performance where the Ducks went 1-2 during his suspension. Coach Greg Cronin noted Zegras's progress and impact, even if stats don’t fully reflect his contributions.

Since Zegras's return from a knee injury, the Ducks had shown signs of resurgence, but his short suspension became a critical point as the team struggled to maintain playoff contention. They lost a critical match against the Buffalo Sabres despite leading and faced an embarrassing defeat to the Blackhawks. As the Ducks prepare for back-to-back games against the Oilers and the Canucks, Zegras will need to demonstrate his value to the team in their playoff push.

Andrew Copp's injury has dealt a significant blow to the Detroit Red Wings' playoff aspirations as he is out for the remainder of the season following surgery on his left pectoral tendon. The forward's absence will be felt after he managed 23 points in 56 games this season. His recovery is expected to take between four to six months, making his return for the next season uncertain.

Additionally, Michael Rasmussen is also sidelined due to an undisclosed injury sustained during a recent game against the Anaheim Ducks. With both players out, the Red Wings have recalled Sheldon Dries from the AHL to bolster their lineup as they currently sit in a wild card position in the Eastern Conference.

The Detroit Red Wings face the Minnesota Wild without key centers Andrew Copp and Michael Rasmussen due to injuries. Coach Todd McLellan confirmed that Rasmussen is day-to-day, while Copp's injury is more serious, leading to his placement on the injured reserve. McLellan emphasized the team's depth, stating, "We have what we have, and we have enough," and praised J.T. Compher's recent play. With a shuffling of the lines, Marco Kasper may remain on the wing alongside Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond rather than returning to center.

Detroit's recent practice showed roster adjustments with Compher centering a line with Alex DeBrincat and Patrick Kane. The fourth line will likely see newcomer Sheldon Dries filling in for the injured centers. While the Red Wings aim to maintain their skating style, the absence of key players puts their depth to the test against the Wild.

Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks has received a three-game suspension without pay for hitting Detroit's Michael Rasmussen in the head. The NHL's Department of Player Safety deemed it a late and high hit, which resulted in significant head contact and was deemed interference. This incident occurred during the second period of a recent game, where no penalty was initially assessed. As a result of the suspension, Zegras will lose approximately $89,844 in salary.

Rasmussen has been ruled out for the Red Wings' next game against Minnesota following the injury sustained from the hit. Coach Todd McLellan confirmed that Rasmussen would not make the trip with the team. This suspension marks the first of Zegras' career since joining the NHL in 2021.