Another season, another March collapse.
Once again, the Detroit Red Wings hit a pivotal skid during the final weeks of the regular season, and this season’s downfall led to the organization missing the playoffs for the tenth consecutive season, which is now stands as the longest postseason drought in the National Hockey League.
The NHL has a new longest active playoff drought, and it resides in Detroit.
— The Athletic NHL (@TheAthleticNHL) April 12, 2026
On Saturday, the Red Wings were mathematically eliminated from 2026 playoff contention, the 10th straight year they will not make the postseason. pic.twitter.com/ZqM9inJ1Fx
The last postseason appearance was back during the 2015-16 season when the Red Wings lost in five games to the Tampa Bay Lighting in the first-round.
That season was Dylan Larkin’s rookie campaign when he was only 19 years old.
By the time the 2026-27 season hits, Larkin will be 30 years old.
Are big changes on tap in Hockeytown?
Only time will tell.
