The Detroit Red Wings are the latest team to clinch a playoff spot, doing so on Monday night with a gigantic victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets. It's their 21st straight year in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, an absolutely remarkable feat, but that doesn't mean it's time to rest.
The Red Wings currently sit in fourth place in the Western Conference with 97 points, one point ahead of No. 5 Nashville. The Predators are on the cusp of clinching a spot, too, and that jockeying for home-ice advantage will no doubt linger until the end of the season.
The two teams could very well face off as the West's No. 4 vs. No. 5 matchup, although both are still in a position to catch the St. Louis Blues for the Central Division title. St. Louis has complete control of their own destiny with 103 points through 76 games, but a slip up in the final six games could give the Red Wings or Predators an opportunity to pounce.
On the flip side, the Chicago Blackhawks could catch both clubs as well. It's unlikely they make an 11 point jump to reach St. Louis, but a four-to-five point leap to catch Detroit or Nashville? Plausible.
For more from the Detroit perspective, check in with SB Nation Detroit and Red Wings blog Winging It In Motown.
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