On Sunday, several Detroit Red Wings players visited the Detroit Lions’ open practice at the Meijer Performance Center in Allen Park, bringing along custom Red Wings jerseys for the Lions. The Red Wings, represented by captain Dylan Larkin, Andrew Copp, Jeff Petry, Alex DeBrincat, and Ben Chiarot, mingled with the Lions players and coaching staff after what was described as a relatively light practice. Among the recipients of the custom jerseys were Lions head coach Dan Campbell, along with players Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, Alex Anzalone, Alim McNeill, and Jack Fox.
“People are excited about football being back and how the (Lions) did last year, the expectations they have, and just talking to a few of the guys on the field,” Larkin told reporters. “It’s a good thing to have, and it’s good that the Lions have that. (The Red Wings) haven’t had much of that, but being out here makes me want to get back to work a little bit. It’s getting to that time,” Larkin added.
Lions’ Success Inspires Red Wings
The visit from the Red Wings comes at a time when the Lions are basking in the glow of one of their most promising seasons. The Red Wings, despite showing potential, finished their season with a 41-32-9 record, missing the NHL postseason for the eighth consecutive year. Yet, there is a palpable sense of camaraderie and mutual support between Detroit’s professional teams.
“We had multiple games last year where the Lions played before us at home, and many fans attended both games,” Larkin noted. “They brought energy to our building, and you could feel it. We saw what the Lions were able to do, and it motivated us in a really good way.”
The Lions’ preseason continues with practices this week as they prepare for a road game against the Kansas City Chiefs. The rematch of last season’s opener is set to take place at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, with kickoff slated for 4 p.m. The Lions emerged victorious in their previous encounter with the Chiefs, winning 21-20.
Stay tuned for more updates on both teams as the Lions aim to build on their recent success, potentially inspiring the Red Wings and other Detroit teams to follow suit.
