DETROIT, Dec. 8 (UPI) -- Todd Bertuzzi touched off an overwhelming five-goal first period Thursday, sending the Detroit Red Wings coasting to a 5-2 victory over Phoenix.
Bertuzzi scored 1:16 into the contest, Valtteri Filppula tallied less than a minute later and the Red Wings then got goals from Tomas Holmstrom, Darren Helm and Jiri Hudler to deliver an early knockout punch.
Detroit ended a two-game losing streak and handed the Coyotes their first loss in three games.
Jimmy Howard made 30 saves for the Red Wings and did not give up a goal until Radim Vrbata came through on a slap shot with 4:45 to go in the second period.
Mike Smith gave up four goals on 11 shots before being removed in favor of Jason LaBarbera, who allowed one goal on 21 shots.
Read More
- NHL: Phoenix 3, Nashville 2
- NHL: Phoenix 4, Chicago 3 (SO)
- NHL: St. Louis 3, Detroit 2
- NHL: Colorado 4, Detroit 2
- NHL: New Jersey 5, Ottawa 4 (SO)
- NHL: Nashville 4, Columbus 3 (OT)
- NHL: Tampa Bay 3, New York Rangers 2 (SO)
- NHL: Florida 2, Boston 0
- NHL: Philadelphia 3, Pittsburgh 2
- NHL: Chicago 3, New York Islanders 2 (OT)