On December 16, 2025, the Detroit Red Wings made a triumphant return to Little Caesars Arena after a two-week pause, facing off against the New York Islanders, a team that had previously bested them twice this season. This time, however, the Wings demonstrated resilience, pulling off a thrilling 3-2 victory.
The game remained scoreless until the third period, where rookie Axel Sandin-Pellikka, continuing his impressive run, scored just 2:03 in, leveling the game at 1-1. This marked Sandin-Pellikka’s seventh point in his last seven games, highlighting his growth and impact on the team. Shortly after, Alex DeBrincat showcased his own hot streak, netting a power play goal at 3:55, which marked his 19th goal of the season and brought the Wings ahead. DeBrincat has been on fire, accumulating 12 points in his last eight games. Lucas Raymond played a pivotal role in facilitating both goals.
The Islanders managed to tie the game again at 11:26 with a goal from Scott Mayfield. Prior to this, the Wings had faced a tough start, conceding an early goal to Emil Heineman just five minutes into the first period. Despite the challenging beginning, the Wings held significant possession and opportunities as the game progressed, keeping Islanders’ goaltender Ilya Sorokin on high alert.
This match was particularly significant as it marked the Wings’ return to action at home following a lengthy road trip, which often presents additional challenges for teams. The victory against the Islanders not only boosts the team’s morale but also sets the stage for their upcoming game against the Utah Mammoth on Wednesday, fostering a hopeful atmosphere for fans and players alike. With their recent performances, the Wings appear poised to build on this momentum as they navigate through the season.