Philadelphia Flyers set to host the Detroit Red Wings – NHL Preview
Detroit Red Wings’ National Hockey League (NHL) record of winning 23 straight home games is followed by the team’s bad patch as Red Wings are struggling to perform up to the mark at the moment.
As Red Wings struggle to settle down, a visit to play against Philadelphia Flyers might not prove to be an easy challenge to overcome.
Flyers also seem to be gaining momentum and it would be interesting to see who wins the matchup on Tuesday, March 6, 2012, at Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Here is a look at both teams.
Red Wings
Out of the last six games, Red Wings have only won two with one defeat coming on home ice while the other three on road.
As far as ranking is concerned, Red Wings need not worry as they are leading the Central Division and are ranked fourth in the Western Conference with 89 points after 66 games.
It is understandable that the Red Wings will reach the playoffs, but they should enter the postseason carrying a positive momentum, which they are struggling to gain at the moment.
In the last game, they were defeated by Chicago Blackhawks.
Both teams scored apiece in the first period, while Blackhawks scored another in the second. The third period went goalless.
Detroit’s goaltender, Jimmy Howard, left the rink in the last game owing to a lower body injury and his status is still not clear.
Howard’s absence can badly hurt the Red Wings as the player is still day-to-day. He said:
"It's nothing serious and it's still day-to-day. Just get treatment here and get back as soon as possible. Nothing major showed."
Flyers
Flyers are gradually beginning the momentum that will certainly help them in the playoffs.
They are presently on a two-game winning streak with the recent victories coming against New York Islanders (6-3) and Washington Capitals (1-0).
Flyers are ranked at fifth spot in the Eastern Conference with 79 points after 64 games.
Flyers have recently struggled against stronger teams and they should have to be cautious against Red Wings.
Predictions
If Flyers manage to perform well on offence, they have a strong chance of beating Red Wings.
The sum of goals scored by both the teams might exceed six.
If Red Wings win, the winning margin will be two or more goals.
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