Back on track?

After a forgetful night on Long Island, the Wings had the type of game that we needed them to Thursday night.

They seemed to have that spring in their step again and now have us feeling like this could be another great season. However, the next 15 games will make the story clearer.

With games against Dallas, Chicago, Washington, Minnesota and LA, the next five games will be crucial for the Wings as they fight to stay in the playoff picture. The Kings are currently one point ahead of the Wings, while the Wild are three points back and the Stars are five points back.

The other two games against the Blackhawks, who are currently tied with San Jose at the top team in the entire NHL with 68 points, New Jersey has 65 points, and Washington is currently in the No. 2 slot in the East with 64 points. So not only would wins against Chicago and the Caps give the Wings valuable points, but could be statement games.

Watching the Wings game against Carolina last night, Mickey Redmond said he felt that the Wings need to be at .600 by the Olympic break to have a chance to make a realistic run at the playoffs.

We will see as guys become healthy and available what this team is made of. Hopefully we don’t see another key injury and the Wings can not be on the outside looking in after Feb. 13, the last game before the break.

On a side note, I must say  that I enjoy adding Larry Murphy to the broadcast team on FSN Detroit. Unlike the NBC team, I sometimes forget that Murph is between the benches. The conversation is usually pretty entertaining and informative.

I know I haven’t done this in a while, but my three stars from last nights game are:

1. Drew Miller (goal, assist)

2. Jimmy Howard (37 saves)

3. Nick Lindstrom (PP goal, first in 42 games)

Honorable Mention:

Darren Helm (the guy created some great scoring chances and was the fastest guy on the ice last night).

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