Detroit Red Wings vs Toronto Maple Leafs Prediction | NHL 21.01.26
Last Updated: Jan 23, 2026 8:49 AM
Wednesday, 21 Jan 2026
TOR -118
Detroit Red Wings
W
W
L
W
W
30-16-4
VS
7:00 PM
Toronto Maple Leafs
L
W
L
L
W
24-17-8
Game Spread
DET +1.5
Total Points
Over
6.5
Detailed Analysis
Detroit Red Wings vs Toronto Maple Leafs Game Analysis | 21-01-2026 | NHL
The Eastern Conference playoff race heats up as the Detroit Red Wings (30-16-4) visit the Toronto Maple Leafs (24-17-8) on January 21, 2026, at 7:00 PM EST in Scotiabank Arena. This regular-season matchup pits a surging Red Wings squad against a Maple Leafs team grappling with significant roster challenges.
Detroit Red Wings Team Performance
The Detroit Red Wings enter this contest in strong form, boasting an impressive 30-16-4 record. Their success is largely attributed to a potent offensive attack and improved consistency. They demonstrate a capacity to control play and capitalize on scoring opportunities, making them a formidable opponent. While their defensive structure has seen enhancements, occasional lapses can still lead to high-danger chances against. Their ability to maintain offensive pressure will be key in a hostile road environment.
Detroit Red Wings Key Players
- Points: Lucas Raymond (53)
- Goals: Alex DeBrincat (26)
- Assists: Lucas Raymond (38)
Toronto Maple Leafs Team Performance
The Toronto Maple Leafs, with a 24-17-8 record, have experienced a more turbulent season, marked by flashes of brilliance interspersed with periods of inconsistency. Their high-octane offense, led by elite talent, remains a threat, but recent performance has been hampered by a depleted roster. Defensive depth, in particular, has been tested, potentially exposing their goaltenders to increased shot volume and quality. Navigating these challenges against a strong Detroit team will require exceptional individual efforts and disciplined team play.
Toronto Maple Leafs Key Players
- Points: John Tavares (43)
- Goals: Auston Matthews (25)
- Assists: Matthew Knies (29)
Injury Report Toronto Maple Leafs
- Anthony Stolarz (Injured reserve): Stolarz (upper body) was reassigned to AHL Toronto on a conditioning assignment Tuesday.
- Dakota Mermis (Injured reserve): Mermis (lower body) was assigned to AHL Toronto on Monday for a conditioning assignment.
- Chris Tanev (Injured reserve): Tanev (groin) is expected to miss a significant amount of time, according to Jonas Siegel of The Athletic on Wednesday.
- Dakota Joshua (Injured reserve): Joshua (upper body) is expected to miss a significant amount of time, Anna Dua of Sportsnet reports Wednesday.
Prediction: Detroit Red Wings vs Toronto Maple Leafs
Considering the Red Wings’ superior record and the significant injury woes plaguing the Maple Leafs, particularly on the defensive end with key players like Chris Tanev sidelined, Detroit is positioned for a strong showing. The Maple Leafs’ depleted blue line will likely struggle to contain Detroit’s dynamic offense, led by Raymond and DeBrincat. While Toronto’s top forwards can always generate offense, their defensive vulnerabilities suggest a higher-scoring affair.
Predicted Winner: Detroit Red Wings +1.5 (Spread)
Total Goals Prediction: Over 6.5
Last 5 Games: DET
Form:
WWLWW
VS
vs Ottawa
W 4-3 OT
PTS
30-16-4
GOL
Gibson
AST
DeBrincat
VS
vs San Jose
W 4-2
PTS
29-16-4
GOL
Gibson
AST
Raymond
VS
@ Boston
L 3-0
PTS
28-16-4
GOL
Talbot
AST
Talbot
VS
vs Carolina
W 4-3 OT
PTS
28-15-4
GOL
Gibson
AST
DeBrincat
VS
@ Montreal
W 4-0
PTS
27-15-4
GOL
Gibson
AST
Gibson
| Opponent | Result | Points | Goles | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Ottawa | W 4-3 OT | 30-16-4 | Gibson | DeBrincat |
| vs San Jose | W 4-2 | 29-16-4 | Gibson | Raymond |
| @ Boston | L 3-0 | 28-16-4 | Talbot | Talbot |
| vs Carolina | W 4-3 OT | 28-15-4 | Gibson | DeBrincat |
| @ Montreal | W 4-0 | 27-15-4 | Gibson | Gibson |
Last 5 Games: TOR
Form:
LWLLW
VS
vs Minnesota
L 6-3
PTS
24-17-8
GOL
Woll
AST
Matthews
VS
@ Winnipeg
W 4-3 OT
PTS
24-16-8
GOL
Hildeby
AST
Ekman-Larsson
VS
@ Vegas
L 6-5 OT
PTS
23-16-8
GOL
Woll
AST
Maccelli
VS
@ Utah
L 6-1
PTS
23-16-7
GOL
Hildeby
AST
Ekman-Larsson
VS
@ Colorado
W 4-3 OT
PTS
23-15-7
GOL
Woll
AST
Nylander
| Opponent | Result | Points | Goles | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| vs Minnesota | L 6-3 | 24-17-8 | Woll | Matthews |
| @ Winnipeg | W 4-3 OT | 24-16-8 | Hildeby | Ekman-Larsson |
| @ Vegas | L 6-5 OT | 23-16-8 | Woll | Maccelli |
| @ Utah | L 6-1 | 23-16-7 | Hildeby | Ekman-Larsson |
| @ Colorado | W 4-3 OT | 23-15-7 | Woll | Nylander |
Written by Matt Dorsey
5 YEARS EXPERIENCE
Matt Dorsey turned his obsession with sports into a career five years ago, and he hasn't looked back. By combining a fan's passion with a veteran’s analytical eye, Matt provides reliable insights for the NBA, NHL, and NFL. He knows you’re looking for more than just a pick; you’re looking for a reason to trust the play. That’s why his work is always transparent, researched, and rooted in five years of proven results.
