NHL Hockey Free Predictions: Minnesota Wild vs. Detroit Red Wings
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Team records:
Minnesota: 36-32-6
Detroit: 37-23-13
Tonight, 7:35p.m. ET
Sportsbook odds: Wild +260, Red Wings -320
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Friday night’s Western Conference matchup between the Minnesota Wild and the Detroit Red Wings is a battle of teams that made the playoffs last year but have struggled at time this year. Both teams had difficult starts to the season but only one has recovered and made themselves heard in this year’s playoff races.
The Minnesota Wild have been struggling all season long. Weather it is the inconsistent goaltending of future star Nicklas Backstrom or the underwhelming play of high priced free agent Martin Havlat, something is not working in Minnesota. They have a slim chance at a playoff spot but currently sit nine points back of their Friday combatants, the Detroit Red Wings who do not look like they are going to give up any ground whatsoever.
Some bright spots have emerged for the Wild over the season and continue to pay dividends for the team today. Captain Mikko Koivu has been stellar on an unspectacular team and has developed into one of the best players that most have never heard of. Note: Koivu sat out Thursday’s game against the Flyers with an arm injury and is very questionable to play against the Wings. Early season trade acquisition Guilluame Latendresse has scored 27 goals for the Wild and has become their leader in goals scored. Goaltender Nicklas Backstom has shown flashes of brilliance, but has been far too inconsistent for the defensively dependent Wild.
The Wild have been playing their typical .500 hockey since the Olympic break and should continue to do so until season’s end. They are overmatched on Friday night for sure! 
The Detroit Red Wings gave their fans a scare and looked like they might miss the playoffs. That was before a 10-2-1 post Olympic streak that has seen the Wings win their last four games by outscoring their opposition 15-6. The usual suspects have been scorching for Detroit. Henrik Zetterberg, Pavel Datsuyk, Valtteri Filppula and Nik Lidstrom have been regular contributors on the score sheet and have also been contributing in the defensive end as well.
When on their game, as they are right now, the Detroit Red Wings are a fun team to watch. They play the game the way that it is supposed to be played. Coach Mike Babcock has the Wings playing with speed, passion, and with an obvious love for the game. The Wings are going to be scary in the playoffs, rest assured. Watch out Minnesota Wild, the Wings are primed to put on a good show for their loyal Joe Louis fans and watch out Western Conference, the Wings have their swagger back!
NHL Betting Trends:
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota’s last 6 games when playing Detroit
Detroit is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
Detroit is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Minnesota
Detroit is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
Minnesota is 4-11 SU in its last 15 games on the road
Minnesota is 5-17-2 SU in its last 24 games ,when playing Detroit
Minnesota is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit’s last 6 games when playing Minnesota
Wild vs. Red Wings Free Pick: Detroit Red Wings
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