DETROIT – Young players who succeed in the NHL learn to navigate through highs and lows, something Detroit Red Wings rookie Axel Sandin-Pellikka experienced on Thursday.

He scored his second goal of the season late in the second period to give the Red Wings a lead they didn’t relinquish in a 6-3 victory over Anaheim. Then he sat for the final 16 minutes of the game when his team was protecting the lead.

“I had some blunder, so just move on from that and focus on the next game,” Sandin-Pellikka said.

It was a learning moment for player and teaching opportunity for coaches.

“The player can’t be confused, wondering, why didn’t I (play),” coach Todd McLellan said. “So, first thing we did (Friday), we watched some video and discussed things and then brought him in, talked to him about his

See Full Page