Pregame: Predators @ Red Wings – 4/25

The Red Wings have a chance to clinch a playoff spot tonight with a win over the Nashville Predators and some help from the Dallas Stars.

Two points for the Wings in their second game in as many nights combined with the Blue Jackets losing to Dallas would put Detroit out of Columbus’ reach in the standings. A Stars’ win combined with a Detroit loss would set up a de facto one-game playoff on Saturday when the Wings visit Dallas.

Detroit is expected to ice the same lineup they used last night to earn a 3-1 win over the Los Angeles Kings. Johan Franzen said he’ll be able to play but will be a game-time decision after suffering an injury late against LA. If Franzen can’t go, Todd Bertuzzi will return to the Wings’ lineup.

Jimmy Howard will get the start yet again. Pekka Rinne will not get the nod for the Predators, with Chris Mason set to go instead.

Game time is 7:30 PM on FSD.