Lyon’s 23 saves, PP unit scores twice, and more: 3 reasons why Detroit Red Wings won 4-2 over Pittsburgh Penguins

The Detroit Red Wings ended the year on a high, beating the Pittsburgh Penguins 4-2 on New Year’s Eve at Little Caesars Arena. With the win, the Wings improved to 2-1 under new coach Todd McLellan.

Jonatan Berggren, Patrick Kane (PPG), J.T. Compher (PPG) and Dylan Larkin scored for the Red Wings. Meanwhile, Drew O’Connor netted twice for the Penguins, including a third-period power play goal to tie the game.

However, the Red Wings eventually pulled away and took home the two points. So, here’s a look at the three key reasons why the Detroit Red Wings beat the Pittsburgh Penguins:

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Three reasons why the Detroit Red Wings beat the Pittsburgh Penguins

#3 The Red Wings outlasted the Penguins

Overall, the game was evenly matched. The Red Wings carried a 2-1 lead into the dressing room after 40 minutes. While O’Connor’s second goal of the game tied it for the better part of the third period, the Wings took advantage of a late power play to grab the lead.

While the shots were even at 25-25, the Red Wings had the edge in hits 18-9 and blocked shots 18-13. The Penguins committed more giveaways 13-7, with the Wings registering more takeaways 7-5. As such, the numbers point to the Wings taking advantage of their opportunities to win a close game.

#2 Strong offensive performance, including powerplay

One issue affecting the Detroit Red Wings has been their lack of offensive output. However, that wasn't the case on Tuesday night, as the Wings scored four goals to notch up the win. In particular, J.T. Compher had two points (1G, 1A), including a power play tally, with Lucas Raymond notching two helpers.

Also, Dylan Larkin got on the board as the Wings’ top six looked solid throughout the game. The Penguins deserve credit for keeping the Red Wings in check for most of the night. However, the Red Wings capitalized on their chances, leading to Compher’s game-winner.

Patrick Kane also deserves an honorable mention after notching up a power play early in the second period to give the Wings a 2-1 lead. He played a strong game at even strength, providing a strong presence on the second line.

#1 Alex Lyon’s 23 saves

Alex Lyon has bounced back strongly for the Detroit Red Wings after giving up five goals in a loss to the Montreal Canadiens on Dec. 21. Lyon was solid, making 23 saves, keeping the Red Wings in the game, particularly in the third period.

The Penguins outshot the Wings 11-8 in the third period as the Pens pushed to tie the game, but Lyon held the fort, providing solid goaltending when his team needed it the most. The performance was encouraging, as it marked a second strong start for Lyon.

The Red Wings next visit the Columbus Blue Jackets on Thursday night in their first game of 2025.