The Detroit Red Wings needed a big win to keep pace in the early goings of the Atlantic Division race, and they got one. But it also means something else.
Just a few days ago, there were rumors that the Red Wings weren’t finished with goaltender Ville Husso, but that narrative has likely shifted after their recent 5-2 victory over the Nashville Predators. In that game, goaltender Alex Lyon continued to impress, making 37 saves and achieving a 0.949 save percentage.
So far this season, Lyon has maintained a 0.929 save percentage and a 2.11 GAA. Although he had a breakout year last season, there were valid doubts about whether he could replicate that performance, especially given his previous lack of NHL experience.
However, those doubts can be set aside unless he experiences an unexpected decline, which seems unlikely. Lyon’s success appears sustainable, and with Cam Talbot also in the lineup, the Red Wings have established a solid goaltending tandem, regardless of any ongoing trade discussions.
Red Wings need to officially give up on Ville Husso right now
It didn’t take long for the Red Wings and everyone in Hockeytown to be reminded of Ville Husso’s struggles as a goaltender. Currently, he ranks below both Alexandar Georgiev of the Colorado Avalanche and Tristan Jarry of the Pittsburgh Penguins, which is saying something given how poorly those two have performed so far.
With Cam Talbot’s solid play over three games and Alex Lyon’s impressive performance today, Husso should be the odd man out moving forward. The Red Wings need to explore other options for him to continue his career, as he’s not even a viable option for organizational depth, regardless of any success he’s had in the AHL.
Another reason to consider trading Husso now is that a team in need of goaltending might be willing to overpay for him if they inquire about his services. While it may seem laughable to some, we know Husso has had success in the past, and NHL executives recognize that potential too.
Some might believe he’s simply a bad fit in Detroit and could revive his career elsewhere. This happens frequently with general managers across sports, especially when the player doesn’t come with a hefty salary— and that’s not the case with Husso.
