The Red Wings’ practice this week was notably different as they skated on a temporary rink set up in the heart of Ohio Stadium, home to the Ohio State Buckeyes football team. Dylan Larkin, who gained prominence with the Michigan Wolverines, expressed his discontent with the stadium’s appearance, stating, “It’s probably the ugliest stadium I’ve ever been in.”
The team was in Columbus, Ohio, on Friday for practice in preparation for Saturday’s Stadium Series matchup against the Blue Jackets. Larkin shared his enthusiasm, saying, “It’s cool to play hockey outside. There’s a lot of excitement with the guys, and it’s pretty cool to just do something different.”
Both the Red Wings and Blue Jackets are vying for a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference as they head into Saturday’s game. The weather forecast predicts temperatures in the 20s at game time, with potential wind gusts that could impact gameplay.
Patrick Kane, a veteran of outdoor hockey games, commented on the conditions, noting, “I’m sure the ice will be a little bit better tonight, being colder. Sometimes today, I noticed it a little bit. You’re skating into the wind, and then, the other way, you’re skating with the wind at your back. That could be something that comes into play where maybe they might switch the sides with 10 minutes left in the third period.”
The upcoming 2025 Stadium Series presents the Red Wings with an opportunity to seek redemption following their 5-2 defeat to the Blue Jackets in Detroit on Thursday.
