Spinning Their Wheels

Since 2009, the Detroit Red Wings have been eliminated in the second round by the San Jose Sharks in consecutive seasons.  Yes, the team's window of opportunity may be closing, but the key elements are still there and have at least one good season left in them.  None is more important than Nicklas Lidstrom, who at 41, can still play top level hockey.  He was the team's most important signing this offseason, and his Norris Trophy from last year is proof of how much he means to the team.  No player is under more pressure than Jimmy Howard, who is competent, but needs to step his game up come playoff time.  Being more consistent in the regular season would go a long way to helping in that regard.  There's no real candidate for a player to watch for, but if you're looking for a bounce back candidate, look no further than Ian White.  He bounced around with three teams last season and had a disappointing year.  He won't have to carry the load this year, so he should be able to produce respectable numbers once again.

Prediction: 3rd in the West

Movie: Stephen King's Christine

With the Winged Wheel as its logo, it's only natural for the Red Wings to be tied to a movie about a killer car.