The Bolts beat the Red Wings 2-1 on Dec. 29, 2019, which was the only other time they faced each other this season. The two teams are trending in the opposite directions with the Lightning looking to have a good stretch run for better playoff positioning, and the Red Wings have already been eliminated from playoff contention.
Here are three keys for tonight's match up between the two teams:
1.) Don't Play Down to Opponent- Lightning
The Lightning need to be ready to play this game from puck drop, which could be hard after coming off of a high octane game against the Bruins last night. The Bolts can't expect to win, but they're going to need to make sure to put the effort in for a full 60 minutes tonight. The Red Wings will won't be in the postseason, but that doesn't mean they still aren't playing for their pride, and could look to play spoiler for some other teams still in the race. The Lightning need to approach this game like it is against one of the better teams in the NHL and not the worst. If the Bolts don't put in the effort and are sloppy with the puck then the Red Wings could steal a very important two points from them.
2.) Avoid Slow, Sloppy Start- Red Wings
The Red Wings have only scored 42 first period goals this season, while giving up 60. If the Red Wings come out slow and aren't ready to play this game then it'll be over before it even started. The Lightning are too good of a team to not take advantage of its opposition's mistakes and slow starts, so the Red Wings need to avoid both. A good way to do this would be to establish a forecheck and cycle game early so they can get some offensive zone time and not have to defend as much. The biggest key to the game for the Red Wings will be avoiding turning over the puck in their own zone to avoid unnecessary scoring chances for the Lightning.
3.) Leading after Second Period- Lightning and Red Wings
The Red Wings haven't been good at too many things this season, but when leading after the second period, the team actually has a winning record. The Red Wings are 9-4-2 when leading after the middle frame, so they may want to have the lead heading into the third period. A way to do that is to get an early goal so the momentum and confidence is on its side going forward. The Lightning are 31-1-4 when leading after the second period, so if the Red Wings don't have the lead going into the third, it will be virtually impossible for them to get any points out of the game.
Players to Watch
1.) Dylan Larkin- Detroit Red Wings
Larkin is one of the Red Wings that is actually having a pretty decent season. He has 18 goals, 32 assists and 50 points. He leads the team in both assists and points. The first line center can play with speed, which can be dangerous at times. Larkin not only has good vision, but he can put the puck in the net too. The 23-year-old is in his fifth season and has been one of the few bright spots for the rebuilding Red Wings. He hasn't had much help this season, but watch out when him and Tyler Bertuzzi are on the ice because they can produce.
2.) Nikita Kucherov- Lightning
Kucherov got off to a slow start, but has managed to turn it on. He has 32 goals, 50 assists and 82 points. He leads the Lightning in goals, assists and points. Kucherov will be leaned on even more down the stretch since Steven Stamkos will miss the rest of the regular season with an injury. Kucherov can do it all and the Red Wings will need to be aware of where he is on the ice at all times. The Red Wings have to make sure that they have a man on Kucherov and not leave him wide open for a shot because he likely won't miss the net with his shot.
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