Although the Detroit Red Wings are now in the Eastern Conference, their rivalry with the Chicago Blackhawks remains hot, and will be renewed on NBCSN Wednesday Night Rivalry. Faceoff from Chicago’s United Center set for 7:30 p.m. ET. This rivalry dates back to 1926 and will be the 809th meeting in its history. The Wings and Hawks have two of the largest and most passionate fan bases in the game that travel well and often into enemy barns. Both the Blackhawks and Red Wings are top playoff contenders that have a shot for the top seeds in their respective conferences.
With an overflow crowd expected, two of the best uniforms in the game, and plenty of skill on both sides, this is a compelling matchup that must not be missed, particularly when you consider the necessity of earning points in every game to keep pace for a high playoff seed and home ice advantage.
Well Balanced Wings Stumble
Detroit has slumped a bit as evidenced by their 4-1 loss at Pittsburgh last Wednesday on Rivalry Night that was followed by a 5-4 shootout loss at home to the Winnipeg Jets. Keep an eye on center Pavel “The Magician” Datsyuk for his great puck handling ability. Left wing Tomas Tatar leads Detroit with 23 goals while left wing Henrik Zetterberg is another skilled and entertaining star that leads the Wings with 49 points. Goaltender Jimmy Howard has slumped to a .900 save percentage in his last five games. The Wings are loaded with skill and head coach Mike Babcock allows it to flow and create to make for an entertaining team to watch.
Here Come the Hawks
Chicago has won four out of their last six games and is coming off an exciting 2-1 shootout win over the Pittsburgh Penguins on Sunday. The Blackhawks rank second in the NHL for goals against thanks to the tandem of Norris Trophy winning defenseman Duncan Keith and goaltender Corey Crawford, who boasts a .922 save percentage on the season and an even better .932 save percentage for his last five games. Keith has seven goals and 25 assists to go with a plus-14 against the top lines in the game. Right wing Patrick Kane is having his best season as he is combining his wicked skill with seasoned maturity. Kane has 27 goals and 36 assists to lead the Hawks. Jonathan Toews has 16 goals and 31 assists with a plus -18 as the perfect complement to the free flowing Kane. Chicago is not only one of the top NHL clubs for ability but also for pure entertainment value.
Detroit scored a 4-1 home win over Chicago on November 14 in the previous meeting between these ancient rivals this season. The Wings have lost seven out of their last eight visits to the United Center including the last three in a row.
