Tarasov Starts as Red Wings Face Canadiens Road Test

Detroit Red Wings goaltender Daniil Tarasov is expected to start against the Montreal Canadiens on the road Saturday night after Detroit lost 6-3 to the Seattle Kraken, with the team needing improved defensive play and goaltending, according to SI.com and CBS Sports.

Tarasov, 27, will make his first start of the 2026-27 campaign after serving as backup to John Gibson early in the season, according to CBS Sports and RotoWire. Detroit turned to him after Gibson allowed five goals on 15 shots against Seattle.

SI.com reported that Gibson was pulled during the second period against the Kraken after allowing four goals in a span of 9:26. The Red Wings were playing the second game of a back-to-back schedule when Tarasov entered the game.

The matchup presents a challenge because Montreal is an Atlantic Division opponent that reached the Eastern Conference Finals last season before being swept by the eventual Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes, according to SI.com.

Detroit's defensive performance has also become a concern, with SI.com reporting that poor defensive coverage has contributed to recent losses. The team has been without Simon Edvinsson and is trying to remain a playoff contender.

SI.com reported that the Red Wings need stronger play in front of Tarasov after defensive breakdowns contributed to Gibson's difficult outing against Seattle. The organization is seeking more consistency from its goaltending group.

CBS Sports and RotoWire reported that Tarasov has settled into the backup role behind Gibson early in the season. They also noted that Detroit's inconsistent offense makes the start a difficult situation during the second half of a back-to-back.

The Red Wings will rely on Tarasov against Montreal as the team looks to improve its early-season results. SI.com reported that Detroit's coaching staff must address defensive issues as the season continues.