By The Detroit Red Wings are making a notable lineup change as they look to snap their four-game losing streak Thursday night against the Florida Panthers. According to Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press, forward Michael Rasmussen will be a healthy scratch for the matchup.
Rasmussen, who has recorded one goal and three assists this season, will be replaced in the lineup by Carter Mazur. The decision comes as Detroit has struggled offensively, scoring just five goals during its current four-game skid.
Todd McLellan Explains Michael Rasmussen Decision
Red Wings head coach Todd McLellan addressed the decision, acknowledging that Rasmussen’s recent play hasn’t been up to expectations.
“Michael’s played really strong; the last few haven’t been as good,” McLellan said, via St. James. “He’s ended up in the wrong spot at the wrong time, at the scene of the crime. We just want to give Maz a chance to go.”
The move gives Mazur another opportunity to make an impact after scoring his first NHL goal against Florida on November 2. He is expected to skate alongside J.T. Compher and Marco Kasper on Detroit’s third line.
The Red Wings have struggled to generate offense during their losing streak, putting additional pressure on McLellan to find a combination that works. The coach has already expressed frustration with his team’s recent performances, and Thursday’s lineup change makes it clear that nobody’s spot should be taken for granted.
Detroit enters Thursday’s game with a 7-9-3 record. The Red Wings and Panthers are scheduled to drop the puck at 7:30 p.m. ET.
https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/detroit-red-wings-surprising-decision-175519766.html
