Hopefully they won't be caught looking ahead to that game, as they have a motivated Stars team to deal with first. The Wings will be trying to improve their 24-1-1 record against non-Central teams.
It looks like neither of Detroit's injured players will be returning today. Tomas Holmstrom (knee bruise) hopes to make it back tomorrow, but it seems Mike Babcock has Homer's return pegged for Tuesday.
The same goes for Kirk Maltby (back strain), who isn't as adamant about wanting to return this weekend.
Dominik Hasek will start this afternoon. Chris Osgood will get the nod tomorrow.
For more of the Wings' side of things, see Snapshots, Abel to Yzerman, HockeyTownTodd, Behind the Jersey, No Pun Intended, Red Wings Nation, yzerman is god, Detroit Hockey, LetsGoWings, and Winging It In Motown.
HockeyTownTodd makes a good point in his latest:
"Look for the Wings to return to a more basic game because of the crappy ice. A little more Dump 'n Chase, very careful line changes (especially in the second). This game could very well be determined by turnovers and takeaways."
The ice is a definite issue, but if turnovers and takeaways become a key feature in the game, the Wings should be in relatively good shape.
Pavel Datsyuk is leading the League in takeaways with 64, and he's more than capable of making something out of them. By the way, Henrik Zetterberg is the highest ranking Red Wing in giveaways at No. 56 with 30.
That doesn't surprise me, really. Hank can be a bit of a puck hog.
I thought the Wings played a solid game Wednesday night, so if they at least pick up where they left off, they'll be in a good position to come out on top. The Stars will obviously look to elevate their play, and they have the skill to make things uncomfortable for Detroit's defense, but if they don't catch the Wings napping, I don't see them coming out of their tailspin just yet.
If Dallas can get Zubov back in the lineup and start Smith, they stand a better chance, but it'll be tough either way if the Wings bring their "A" game.
(via On the Wings)
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