Red Wings Could Move Up in Standings Tonight

One night after defeating the Minnesota Wild to take a six-point lead over the Calgary Flames in the standings, the Detroit Red Wings are looking forward, with the chance to leapfrog the Nashville Predators tonight.

The Wings currently sit at 89 points with 74 games played. Nashville is two points up after 75 games. A Detroit win in regulation would put the teams into a tie, with Detroit having fewer games played.

The Los Angeles Kings and Colorado Avalanche both have games tonight as well. Colorado is currently tied with Detroit but has played one less game. The Kings are one point up, also with a game in hand. Losses by both, combined with a Detroit win, would vault the Red Wings from eighth place to fifth.

The Wings will have to make due without Dan Cleary, however. Cleary left Friday’s game early after re-injuring his groin and is not expected to play tonight. Defenseman Derek Meech will skate on the fourth line, as he did when Cleary was originally hurt.

Jimmy Howard is expected to get the start.

Game time is 8:00.