Detroit will be faced with a tough test as they take to the ice with the division-leading Chicago Blackhawks today.
Both teams are coming off Friday night victories with Chicago beating Vancouver 6-3.
This games marks the first game of the season between the two rivals, where both teams will contest with a full line-up. Adam Burish could make his return after pre-season knee surgery, but otherwise all Blackhawks are ready for action. In the other locker-room, the only absentee is Kirk Maltby, as will be the case for the rest of the season.
The Red Wings will make no changes to the lineup that handled the Predators on Friday night, as Jimmy Howard will get the nod in goal again. Cristobal Huet is expected to mind the net for Chicago.
Nick Lidstrom and Detroit's defense will have a tough time stifling the talented offense Chicago will unleash today, one that includes former-Wing, Marian Hossa, who has 4 point in the 'Hawks last two winning contests. Fellow Olympians, Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane will also need to be contained. Kane has 12 points in his last 7 skates, while Blackhawks' captain Toews, has 8 points in his last 4.
For Detroit, Pavel Datsyuk has been heating up of late, a very welcome development for Red Wings' fans. He has 7 points in his last 4.
A win in this game is vital for Detroit. Firstly, the obvious need to remain in the playoff race is of utmost importance, but further to that, the Wings need to show themselves they can still contend with the best. Chicago seems to have all but locked up the Central, with a 16 point lead over 2nd-placed Nashville and are amid a dogfight with San Jose for top spot in the West.
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