Detroit Red Wings Could Have Won Playoffs – Exploring the What‑If Scenario

Detroit Red Wings missed the postseason by a razor‑thin margin, leaving fans to wonder how a playoff spot would have reshaped the franchise. As of July 11, 2026 the Red Wings sit 10th in the Eastern Conference with a 41‑31 record and a three‑game losing streak, a stark reminder of how close they came.

Would Dylan Larkin Have Stayed?

Larkin’s trade request stunned the locker room, but a playoff appearance might have altered his calculus. If Detroit had clinched a berth before the Olympic break, the optimism could have given Larkin a reason to stay, especially with a deeper run on the horizon. Yet the tension between him and GM Steve Yzerman had been brewing for months, and some insiders believed the rift was too deep for a single win to mend.

How Would Patrick Kane’s Contract Situation Change?

Kane’s future has been a headline‑grabbing saga. In reality, rumors swirl about a move to Buffalo, but a successful postseason could have turned negotiations into a formality. A strong playoff showing often convinces owners to lock up star talent, and Detroit’s front office might have offered a multi‑year extension to keep the veteran winger in Detroit.

What Impact on Team Morale and Future Plans?

Missing the playoffs left the Red Wings in a stall, with uncertainty clouding roster decisions. A playoff run would have injected confidence, possibly influencing draft strategy and free‑agent targets. The coaching staff would have had a clearer picture of which lines clicked, especially the top six that featured Larkin, Kane, and rookie sensation.

Could the Playoff Loss Have Been Avoided?

The season’s turning point arrived in March, when the team slipped from a solid hold on a postseason spot to a three‑game losing streak that ultimately cost them. A tighter defensive effort in the final stretch, perhaps a better performance from goaltender Ville Husso, might have preserved the lead and kept the club in the hunt.

The "what if" exercise highlights how a single playoff berth can ripple through a franchise’s decisions. While the Red Wings now regroup, the lingering question remains: will the missed opportunity fuel a stronger push next season, or will it deepen the doubts that have already taken root?