Tip: Detroit chases crucial points in the battle for the playoffs as Columbus visits!

The battle for the last playoff spot in the Eastern Conference is intensifying. The Detroit Red Wings, after a weak period, have lost their grip on the playoff spot but are still closely behind and would definitely get some breathing room with a victory tonight.

Dylan Larkin Close to Return

Detroit's marquee player Dylan Larkin, who is also the captain of the Red Wings, has been dealing with a long-term injury, but he is now nearing a comeback. It's probably too early for the 27-year-old goal-scorer to make an entrance tonight against Columbus, but he is expected to return to the game before the week is out. In his absence, Detroit has struggled, and victories have been scarce. However, they did secure an important win during regular time against the Buffalo Sabres recently, and despite the loss the night after against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the Red Wings still have the playoffs within reach.

Aside from the injured Dylan Larkin, Detroit is in good shape regarding injuries, unlike the Columbus Blue Jackets, who continue to suffer from a long injury list. Adam Fantilli, Patrik Laine, Kent Johnson, Justin Danforth, Sean Kuraly, Yegor Chiankhov, and Adam Boqvist are no minor injury list. Despite this, the Blue Jackets have made some okay efforts, but it has mainly been on home ice. When the team has been on the road, it has been more difficult.

Many Goal Scorers in Detroit

Two teams that are weak in terms of results are facing each other. However, Detroit has been a positive surprise this season compared to the pre-season evaluation of the team. Patrick Kane has been the expected positive offensive injection, and as the season progresses, his teammates have learned where his smart passes are going. So far, the veteran has managed to score 14 goals and 21 assists in 37 matches. However, Swedish Lucas Raymond leads the scoring chart with 22 goals and 35 assists. Detroit's great strength is the team's depth in the lines with players who can threaten offensively. No fewer than 13 of the team's players have scored 10 goals or more this season. The problem has rather been a weak defense that gives away too much.

Columbus hardly has a defense to boast about either. In 5-on-5 play, the team allows the third most goals according to xGA (expected goals against) and in all situations counted, they allow the fourth most. They will, therefore, have their hands full defending against all of Red Wings' offensive threats.

Betting Tips and Conclusion

A Columbus Blue Jackets team that is not pleasing anyone and has a solid injury list is traveling to Detroit to face a desperate home team in great need of points. I believe the visiting team will have a tough time. The Red Wings also always have many potential goal scorers on the ice, and against one of the league's weakest defensive teams, I believe they will make the most of their offensive flair. Detroit should not be as exposed as they can be by better teams, I'm definitely leaning towards the home team!

Detroit Red Wings FT @ 2.00 on bet365