Breaking Down the Red Wings' Projected Defense Pairings for 2026-27, tell me about this news in (https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/detroit-red-wings/latest-news/breaking-down-the-red-wings-projected-defense-pairings-for-2026-27)
18-09-2026
The article breaks down the Detroit Red Wings’ projected top-six defense pairings for the 2026–27 season under head coach Todd McLellan, referencing lineup projections from Daily Faceoff and PuckPedia alongside analytics from MoneyPuck.
1. First Pairing: Simon Edvinsson & Moritz SeiderRole & Outlook: Presuming Edvinsson signs a new deal, this duo will remain Detroit’s top unit following an elite campaign.
Key Numbers: Over nearly 1,088 minutes across 71 games, they formed the NHL’s fifth-highest scoring defensive pair with 51 goals. Defensively, they allowed just 2.10 goals against per 60 minutes, ranking in the top eight league-wide among pairings with at least 800 minutes played together.
Role & Outlook: A veteran pairing looking for a bounce-back defensive season, with added motivation for Faulk as he enters a contract year.
Key Numbers: In roughly 250 minutes across 16 games together last season, the pairing generated 9 goals but surrendered 13, highlighting a need for tighter defensive structure.
Role & Outlook: While PuckPedia projects Jacob Bernard-Docker in this spot, the article highlights Sandin Pellikka for his higher offensive ceiling.
Key Numbers: In limited action together (124 minutes over 41 games), they posted 6 goals for and 10 against. Despite the defensive lapses, their 2.89 goals-for per 60 minutes tied for the best offensive rate among Red Wings defense pairs, projecting high offensive upside as they develop further.