DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings opened the season Thursday amid optimism and excitement.

Three rookies injected energy and skill into the lineup. A new starting goaltender seemed to solidify the position. They wore special uniforms to commemorate what will be a season-long Centennial celebration.

They faced a team that played the night before and started its backup goalie and even took an early lead.

It was all downhill after that as the Montreal Canadiens dismantled the Red Wings 5-1 at Little Caesars Arena.

The Canadiens (1-1-0) played the night before, losing 5-2 in Toronto, and started backup goalie Jakub Dobes, but Detroit didn’t capitalize.

Dylan Larkin’s power-play goal energized the crowd 3:50 in the first period.

But the Red Wings left the ice to a chorus of boos following t

See Full Page