The Detroit Red Wings are officially taking over the Atlantic! After a massive four-goal third-period explosion, Detroit dismantled the Winnipeg Jets 5-1. Discover how J.T. Compher’s heroics and Patrick Kane’s historic milestone have Hockeytown buzzing in 2026.
There is a specific kind of electricity in the air when a team truly finds its rhythm, and right now, the Detroit Red Wings are playing like a team possessed. On Saturday night, in front of a sold-out crowd at Canada Life Centre, Detroit didn’t just win; they put on a clinic. What started as a tight, defensive battle turned into a third-period takeover that left the “True North” faithful in stunned silence.
Game Highlights: Detroit Red Wings vs. Winnipeg Jets (Jan 24, 2026)
| Feature | Details |
| Final Score | 5 – 1 (Detroit Red Wings Victory) |
| Star of the Game | J.T. Compher (2 Goals) |
| Goaltender | John Gibson (26 Saves, 8th Straight Win) |
| Turning Point | 4 goals scored by Detroit in the 3rd Period |
| Historic Milestone | Patrick Kane ties Mike Modano for all-time US points lead |
| Division Impact | Detroit moves back to 1st in the Atlantic |
A Statement Win in Winnipeg for the Detroit Red Wings
Entering the game, the Detroit Red Wings were looking to bounce back from a heartbreaking overtime loss earlier in the week. They didn’t just bounce back—they soared. For the first forty minutes, it was anyone’s game. Winnipeg’s Cole Koepke actually broke the ice midway through the second period, snapping a massive scoring drought for the Jets and giving the home crowd a reason to erupt.
However, the Detroit Red Wings have developed a “bend but don’t break” identity this season. Instead of fading, they stayed patient. J.T. Compher managed to bat home a loose puck late in the second to tie the game, setting the stage for a final twenty minutes that will be etched in the minds of Red Wings fans for a long time.
The Third Period Explosion
If you blinked during the third period, you probably missed a goal. The Detroit Red Wings turned a 1-1 deadlock into a 5-1 blowout with a relentless offensive display. Compher struck again just 1:43 into the frame, finishing off a beautiful “tick-tack-toe” passing play that silenced the arena.
The floodgates officially opened when Lucas Raymond notched his 18th of the year following a tense video review. Raymond is currently riding a five-game point streak, proving he is one of the most lethal young stars in the game today. Alex DeBrincat added an empty-netter for his team-leading 27th goal, and Marco Kasper capped off the night with a late strike, highlighting the immense scoring depth that the Detroit Red Wings currently possess.
John Gibson’s Legendary Streak and Kane’s History
While the goals were flying in, the backbone of this victory was John Gibson. The Detroit Red Wings netminder has been unbeatable of late, and Saturday marked his eighth consecutive victory. Gibson made 26 saves, providing the kind of calm, veteran presence that allowed Detroit’s young skaters to take risks on the other end of the ice.
But the night belonged to another veteran as well. With two assists on the night, Patrick Kane officially reached 1,374 career points. This historic achievement ties him with former Detroit Red Wings forward Mike Modano for the most points ever recorded by a US-born NHL player. It was a fitting tribute to Kane’s longevity and skill, and doing it during a crucial divisional push made it all the more special.
Looking Ahead: Top of the Atlantic
This victory was massive for the standings. Coupled with a Tampa Bay loss, the Detroit Red Wings have officially moved back into first place in the Atlantic Division. The team has now earned points in five consecutive games and looks like a legitimate threat to make a deep playoff run.
With their next game scheduled at home against the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday, the momentum is clearly in Detroit’s favor. They are playing a balanced game, getting elite goaltending from Gibson, and historic production from stars like Kane and Raymond. For the Hockeytown faithful, the 2025-26 season is shaping up to be something truly extraordinary.
Conclusion
The Detroit Red Wings are no longer just a “promising” team; they are a dominant force. By dismantling a physical Winnipeg squad on the road and delivering a historic milestone for an American legend, they have solidified their status as a heavyweight in the Eastern Conference. As long as they keep flying this high, the Detroit Red Wings will be the team no one wants to see on their schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who led the scoring for the Detroit Red Wings against the Jets?
J.T. Compher was the primary hero, scoring two goals. Lucas Raymond, Marco Kasper, and Alex DeBrincat also added one goal each in the 5-1 win.
2. What historic milestone did Patrick Kane reach during the game?
Patrick Kane recorded two assists, bringing his career total to 1,374 points. This ties him with Mike Modano for the most points by a US-born player in NHL history.
3. How long is John Gibson’s current win streak?
John Gibson has now won eight consecutive starts for the Detroit Red Wings, earning his 21st win of the season in the process.
4. Where do the Detroit Red Wings stand in the division after this win?
Thanks to the 5-1 victory and a loss by the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Detroit Red Wings have moved back into first place in the Atlantic Division.
5. When is the next Detroit Red Wings game?
The Detroit Red Wings return home to host the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday night at Little Caesars Arena.
