Red Wings’ play-off streak officially ends

Washington: The Detroit Red Wings’ 25-season NHL play-off streak ended on Tuesday with a 4-1 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The defeat, combined with the Boston Bruins’ 4-1 win over the Nashville Predators and Toronto’s 3-2 victory over Florida, mathematically eliminated Detroit from the play-off hunt.

It’s the first time since 1991 that they have missed the post-season.

Their remarkable streak of play-off appearances included six runs to the Stanley Cup Finals and four Stanley Cup triumphs.

The Red Wings had appeared destined to miss the play-offs for weeks, and looked weary on Tuesday in their third game in three days.

“Detroit was probably a little bit tired,” said Hurricanes goalie Cam Ward, who finished with 21 saves. “You have a team play three in three (days), you try to take advantage.”

— AFP