Red Wings’ Simon Edvinsson Scores Overtime Winner After Injury Scare

UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, Simon Edvinsson returned from a potential injury to score the overtime winner for the Detroit Red Wings, sealing a 3-2 victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Little Caesars Arena on January 7, 2024. Just moments earlier, Edvinsson had collapsed after taking a shot to the knee, leaving fans and teammates in shock.

Midway through the second period, Edvinsson was injured while on the penalty kill, falling to the ice as he struggled to regain his footing. Despite the alarming situation, he remarkably returned just two minutes later to not only continue playing but to clinch the game with a stunning goal at 1:46 of overtime.

Teammate Mason Appleton praised Edvinsson’s tenacity, stating, “He rose from the dead and came back and scored an unbelievable goal. That was a gutsy effort.” This victory marks the Red Wings’ third overtime win in four games, helping them maintain their position atop the Atlantic Division with a record of 23-14-3 and 49 points.

Coach Todd McLellan commended Edvinsson’s defensive skills as well, noting, “He’s one of our best shot-blockers… when it came back, he was good to go. Played a hell of a game.” Edvinsson logged an impressive 25:57 of ice time, effectively matching up against the Maple Leafs’ top line, which features star player Auston Matthews.

Reflecting on his injury, Edvinsson admitted, “I thought for sure something was off. I couldn’t feel my foot or my knee… I didn’t know what I was doing there for a while.” His quick return to the ice sparked astonishment among teammates, with Appleton recalling the moment, “Me and (Michael Rasmussen) look each other, like, ‘Oh my God, he’s back.’”

The victory not only boosts the Red Wings’ morale but also showcases Edvinsson’s resilience. He described his overtime goal as opportunistic, seizing a rebound from goaltender Dennis Hildeby after a shot from Patrick Kane. Edvinsson maneuvered around Mattias Maccelli and delivered a slick backhand shot for his fifth goal of the season.

“Sometimes I wish he would shoot more because he’s got a really good shot,” McLellan added, highlighting Edvinsson’s potential for growth. “Any offense we can get from either of those two is a bonus.”

As the Red Wings continue their season, Edvinsson’s performance has not only solidified his role on the team but has also made him a player to watch. Fans are eager to see how he will build on this remarkable comeback. Stay tuned for more updates on the Red Wings’ journey through the season.