NHL Playoff Watch: Detroit's Last Stand?

At the beginning of the 2024-25 NHL season, optimism surrounded the Detroit Red Wings, a franchise with a storied history, as many believed they could return to the postseason. However, with just under two weeks remaining, their playoff hopes are hanging by a thread.

The Red Wings’ Uphill Battle

• Current Record: 75 points, six behind Montreal for the final wild-card spot.
• Critical Game: Friday night’s matchup vs. the Carolina Hurricanes (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+).
• Brutal Schedule Ahead: After Carolina, they face Florida (twice), Montreal, Tampa Bay, Dallas, New Jersey, and Toronto—all current playoff teams.

Playoff Outlook

• Win Now or Go Home: A loss on Friday could mathematically eliminate them from contention.
• Key Factor: Do playoff-bound teams rest stars, giving Detroit a lifeline?

Eastern Conference Wild Card Race

Today’s Must-Watch NHL Games

• Carolina Hurricanes @ Detroit Red Wings (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+)
• Chicago Blackhawks @ Washington Capitals (7 p.m. ET, NHL Network)
• Minnesota Wild @ New York Islanders (7:30 p.m. ET)

Updated NHL Playoff Projections

Top Eastern Conference Matchups (if playoffs started today):

• Toronto (A1) vs. Ottawa (WC1)
• Washington (M1) vs. Montreal (WC2)
• Winnipeg (C1) vs. St. Louis (WC2)

Western Conference Leaders:

1. Winnipeg Jets (108 pts)
2. Dallas Stars (104 pts)
3. Vegas Golden Knights (98 pts)

Draft Lottery Watch: Who’s in the Connor Bedard Sweepstakes?

The race for last place (and better lottery odds) is heating up:

1. San Jose Sharks (50 pts)
2. Chicago Blackhawks (52 pts)
3. Nashville Predators (62 pts)

Final Verdict

Detroit’s slim postseason chances rely on Friday’s must-win against Carolina. If they lose, their playoff dream is all but over. Meanwhile, the draft lottery race adds intrigue for struggling teams.

Stay updated with ESPN’s NHL coverage for real-time analysis!