Saturday’s intense United States-Canada game drew a whopping 4.4 million viewers on ABC. The U.S. prevailed 3-1 in a game that featured three fights in the first nine seconds and a winning goal by Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin.

As the Red Wings returned to practice, the predominate topic was the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament that has surpassed lofty expectations.

Even Patrick Kane had to laugh and admit, “I’m not sure any of us really thought we’d be in this position right now, but what a spot we’re in.”

In a span of 40 days, the Red Wings seem to have transformed into another team, moving up to the top wild card spot. They have fashioned two seven-game winning streaks and McLellan’s 15-4-1 record ties Mike Babcock for the best 20-game start with the club for a Red Wings coach.