Larkin, Raymond missing in action, Talbot outing wasted, and more: 3 reasons why Detroit Red Wings lost 4-1 to Philadelphia Flyers

The Detroit Red Wings dropped a frustrating 4-1 game against the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday night at the Wells Fargo Center. Scott Laughton was the Red Wings’ executioner, scoring four goals. Meanwhile, Aleksei Kolosov made 25 saves for the Flyers.

Ben Chariot got his first of the season for the Detroit Red Wings, pulling the team to within one at the 16:07 mark of the third. However, Laughton added two empty-netters to pull away from Detroit.

So, here’s a look at the three key reasons why the Detroit Red Wings lost to the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday night.

3 reasons why Detroit Red Wings lost to Philadelphia Flyers

#3 The Flyers controlled much of the game

The Detroit Red Wings had trouble building momentum as the Flyers dominated much of the game. The Flyers outshot the Wings 36-26 while winning 63% of the draws. In a close game, having an edge in the faceoff circle can make a significant difference.

Both teams had a lone power play opportunity. However, the Wings didn’t score on their opportunity. Considering how close the game was throughout, a power play goal could have made the difference between losing and potentially coming away with at least a point.

#2 The Wings wasted a strong outing by Talbot

Detroit Red Wings goaltender Cam Talbot earned the game’s second star due to his 32 saves on 34 shots. Talbot kept the Wings in the game up until he was pulled for an extra attacker late in the third.

Overall, Talbot has provided solid goaltending this season. His performance on Thursday night was another strong outing, giving up two goals or less in four of his last five appearances. However, the Wings have only won once in those five outings.

As such, Talbot’s performance on Thursday night was a wasted one. Had the Wings provided enough scoring support, the team would have taken the two points.

#1 Top scorers absent from the scoresheet

The Red Wings' top scorers Dylan Larkin, Lucas Raymond, and Alex DeBrincat were absent from the scoresheet. Larkin, Raymond and DeBrincat combined for five shots on goal, with DeBrincat getting three.

Moreover, Larkin, Raymond and DeBrincat all finished the game at minus 3. That sort of performance won’t cut it for a team looking to escape the Atlantic Division cellar and get back into the playoff race. The Red Wings will need more consistent scoring in order to win games.

The Red Wings will get a break on Friday to regroup before taking on the Toronto Maple Leafs on Saturday night at the Little Caesars Arena.