McLellan and his right-hand man, former Kings and Ducks assistant Trent Yawney, have put their imprint on the winged wheel in short order. “Our structure in all three zones (has improved), I feel like we’re just supporting the puck better,” Talbot told The Detroit News.

The Red Wings (24-21-5, 53 points) would tie Tampa Bay and Columbus for the final wild card spot with a win over the Oilers and a regulation loss by the Blue Jackets at Vegas, though technically Detroit would still trail based on points percentage and tiebreakers.

The Detroit Red Wings believe in themselves again, says new head coach Todd McLellan. That has made all the difference in the world.

But McLellan and his assistant Trent Yawney have given this team a pulse. The mood around the team is upbeat and confident. A push toward the playoffs is still very much on the ra