5 Things the Detroit Red Wings Must Do to Make the 2015-16 NHL Playoffs

By Nick Villano

5 Things the Detroit Red Wings Must Do to Make the 2015-16 NHL Playoffs

Red Wings Score — The Detroit Red Wings are in an interesting place for their franchise. They are still holding on to their 24 year playoff streak, despite rostering very different teams over the years. They lost arguably the best coach in the league in Mike Babcock. They have a roster split of ultra-talented young guns and wily veterans. There are many ways that they can make the playoffs, but these five are crucial to their success.

5. Mike Green Gaining Instant Chemistry

5. Mike Green Gaining Instant Chemistry

5. Mike Green Gaining Instant Chemistry

5. Mike Green Gaining Instant Chemistry — Mike Green was the big signing for the Red Wings this offseason. While he is never going to be the 30 goal scoring defenseman he once was, he definitely helps with offense from the back side. His biggest problem is staying on the ice. If he can remain healthy and gain instant chemistry, being this is the first time he has changed teams in his career, then this will be considered one of the best signings of the offseason.

4. Gustav Nyquist and Tomas Tatar Take Another Step Forward

4. Gustav Nyquist and Tomas Tatar Take Another Step Forward

4. Gustav Nyquist and Tomas Tatar Take Another Step Forward

4. Gustav Nyquist and Tomas Tatar Take Another Step Forward — Gustav Nyquist and Tomas Tatar look like they could be superstars who carry the load of the Red Wings for years to come. Both players barely fell below the 30 goal plateau last season. This year, both will come in with expanded roles. They will be able to exceed that mark with more opportunities.

3. Figure Out Goalie

3. Figure Out Goalie

3. Figure Out Goalie

3. Figure Out Goalie — The Detroit Red Wings don't seem to know who they want as their starting goalie, which isn't a good sign. Petr Mrazek is the player they are hoping will come out of the competition as the winner, but Jimmy Howard has a long-term deal and has proved in the past he can carry this team. A season-long goalie competition could knock this season off the rails.

2. Consistent Coaching

2. Consistent Coaching

2. Consistent Coaching

2. Consistent Coaching — The change in head coach is the biggest headline for the Red Wings. Changing out Mike Babcock for Jeff Blashill is significant, but it may not be a detriment. Blashill has been ready for an NHL job for years, and now he has his chance. If he is as good as his hype is, then the Red Wings will be fine.

1. Stay Healthy

1. Stay Healthy

1. Stay Healthy

1. Stay Healthy — Injuries can derail any season at any time for any team. The Red Wings had to deal with multiple injuries last season. That just caused others to step up their game. This season may be too fragile to survive major player losses.

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Detroit Red Wings

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