The Detroit Red Wings (53-20-7) have only three games left in the regular season, two of which will be against the Chicago Blackhawks (38-33-8). Chicago is all but eliminated from the playoffs at this point, which is too bad. It would have been a great story to see the re-awakening of this traditionally strong hockey market lead into the playoffs, but I guess they'll have to shoot for next season.
With a win tonight or in any of the remaining Wings games, the team would clinch the President's Trophy. While it wouldn't be the end of the world to not end up with the trophy, we'd lose it to San Jose and since we'd likely play them in the playoffs, it would be nice to have the home ice advantage.
Kris Draper is out for the next three games as his groin is giving him trouble again. Tomas Holmstrom will not play tonight with an abdominal strain that has resulted in him missing 11 games, however he could return in time for tomorrow's home game. Mikael Samuelsson is also dealing with a tight groin so he won't be on the roster tonight either. Defenseman Brad Stuart's broken finger is still healing and while he is now practicing with the team, he won't be on the ice tonight.
The game starts at 8:30pm (EST). Go Wings!