Hockeytown Heroics and Heartbreak ft. Ken Daniels and Kirk Maltby - Mar. 22nd, 2026
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The Winged Wheel Podcast delves into the emotional rollercoaster of the Detroit Red Wings' recent stretch, highlighting a pivotal 3-1 win over Montreal followed by a heartbreaking 4-2 loss to Boston. Hosts Ryan Hanna, Brad Crisco, and Evan Lopsinger dissect the razor-thin margins that defined both games, emphasizing how the Red Wings' inability to close out tight contests—despite strong performances—has left them clinging to playoff hopes. The episode features a live interview with legendary Red Wings broadcaster Ken Daniels and four-time Stanley Cup champion Kirk Maltby, who reflect on the culture of winning, the importance of buy-in, and the mental toughness required in playoff hockey. Maltby draws parallels between today’s team and the dominant 1990s Red Wings, stressing the value of experience and resilience. The hosts and guests also discuss the league-wide tight race, the impact of the 3-2-1 point system, and the looming importance of the upcoming game against Ottawa, which could determine playoff fate. With injuries piling up and the clock ticking, the Red Wings are at a crossroads: a chance to build a foundation for the future or risk another season of heartbreak.
The Red Wings must win their remaining games to stay in the playoff hunt, with the Ottawa game being a critical 'do-or-die' matchup.
Despite strong performances, the team continues to lose tight games due to costly mistakes and poor execution in key moments.
John Gibson has been the team’s MVP this season, posting elite save percentages and anchoring a defense that’s struggled to stay consistent.
The culture of winning—buy-in, discipline, and mental toughness—remains central to the team’s identity, as emphasized by Kirk Maltby.
The NHL’s 3-2-1 point system has created an unprecedented level of parity, making every game feel like a playoff game.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
The Sad Bar: Heartbreak After Boston
“It's like, yeah, it's sad bar. We're still going to go to Harry's, but it's not a... Drink our sorrows away after that one.”
Montreal Heroics and the Need for Consistency
“The Red Wings finally got some luck in a game, especially one of such importance as the game against Montreal, right? JT Comfort uses his hockey butt, and the puck just goes in the net.”
Boston Collapse: The Cost of Details
“They let it slip away and there is no moral win. There is like I think two things can be true. That was a pretty decent offensive effort... but also one where like you said Brad at the top of this discussion... They let detail slip.”
Live Show: Ken Daniels & Kirk Maltby on Culture and Legacy
The podcast transitions to a live interview at Little Caesars Arena featuring Ken Daniels and Kirk Maltby. They discuss the importance of team culture, the legacy of the 1990s Red Wings, and the mental toughness required to win in the playoffs. Maltby shares personal stories from the 2002 Cup run and reflects on what it takes to build a winning team.
Overtime: The Future and the Pressure to Perform
In a brief post-interview segment, the hosts answer fan questions about the future of the roster, the potential for a Dylan Larkin trade, and the importance of making the playoffs. They express skepticism about major moves but stress that the team must now focus on winning the next few games.
“You've got to make his life hell. Like you have to make it hell. They had 44 shots on goal and look, if they do that more games than not, they're going to win more games for the rest of the year.”
“They let it slip away and there is no moral win. There is like I think two things can be true. That was a pretty decent offensive effort... but also one where like you said Brad at the top of this discussion... They let detail slip.”
“If the Red Wings make it to 98 points and miss the playoffs, is that a failure? Yes. Because Buffalo, Montreal, and Ottawa will all be getting experience they need.”
Hosts
Guests
Detroit Red Wings
other
NHL
organization
Dylan Larkin
person
Kirk Maltby
person
John Gibson
person
Ken Daniels
person
Boston Bruins
other
Alex Debrinkit
person
Little Caesars Arena
other
Montreal Canadiens
other
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