"Embarassing effort from full roster": Fans disappointed as Detroit Red Wings face 5-1 preseason defeat against lesser experienced Penguins roster

NHL fans on social media expressed their disappointment following the Detroit Red Wings' preseason defeat to the Pittsburgh Penguins.

During Monday's clash at Little Caesars Arena, the Pens showcased a dominant outing, defeating the Red Wings 5-1. Notably, Pittsburgh secured this impressive victory without the presence of their star players like Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin.

In contrast, the Red Wings boasted a strong and more experienced lineup in the matchup against the Pens. However, fans on X/Twitter were left frustrated after witnessing the Red Wings' loss against a Pens roster that was notably less experienced.

"Majority NHL squad vs an AHL team. Not gonna read too much into this one but what the hell," another fan said.

Here are some more reactions from fans on X:

"I get that it’s preseason But that was the WORST roster Pittsburgh had to offer And their rebuildinggggggg," one X user posted.

"That 2nd line with 11 and 88 puts too much defensive pressure on whoever centers them. I prefer 11 on line 3 and 92 37 88 on line 2. Veleno, Fish, Ras, Motte, Mazur can fight for the 4th line. Line 3 is the big question. Maybe Tarasenko, Copp, Berggy? another fan opined.

"Disappointing, especially when this team is filled with Wings top NHL and top prospects vs Pens prospects only. At least the Buffalo game is doing a lot better with Wings lessor talent over there," one fan said.

"What a tough watch I’m glad that’s how I wasted my Monday night hopefully the other boys in buffalo will pull through," another fan chimed in.

The Detroit Red Wings participated in two preseason games with split rosters on Monday. In addition to the first team's defeat, the second squad also lost 4-3 in overtime to the Buffalo Sabres.

Pittsburgh Penguins down Detroit Red Wings 5-1

Drew O'Connor scored the opener for the Pens on the powerplay at 17:35 of the first period. Lars Eller then doubled the lead at 4:54 of the second period before Lucas Raymond cut the deficit to 2-1 for the Red Wings.

Two goals from Noel Acciari and an empty netter for Vasily Ponomareve in the third period secured a dominating 5-1 win for the Penguins. Both teams will meet once again on Tuesday at PPG Paints Arena.

The Red Wings will face the Penguins in preseason action once again on Tuesday at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh.