Our Detroit Red Wings rooting guide for today includes several key matchups that carry massive Stanley Cup Playoff implications.
The Detroit Red Wings remain in contention for a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, trailing by just two points for the final Wild Card spot. As they gear up to face the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight at Amalie Arena, the team is acutely aware of the significant implications of several upcoming games on their schedule. These matchups could greatly influence their chances of securing a playoff berth this spring.

New York Islanders vs. Philadelphia Flyers
The Islanders and Flyers are poised to be formidable contenders in the race for postseason contention, with the Red Wings expected to engage in tight battles until the season’s end. Currently at 77 points, the Islanders are closely positioned near the cutoff point, while the Flyers, just two points behind the Red Wings at 82, are within striking distance. The competition for playoff spots intensifies as these teams vie for their postseason aspirations.
Pittsburgh Penguins vs. New York Rangers
With 75 points, the Penguins are within five points of the Red Wings in the standings. Expectations are high as the team, led by captain Sidney Crosby, strives to make one last push for a title before facing the inevitable challenge of aging stars retiring. The race for playoff contention intensifies as both teams aim to solidify their positions in the standings.
TL;DR (too long didn’t read)
- The Detroit Red Wings find themselves in a precarious position, just two points out of the final Wild Card postseason spot in the Eastern Conference
- Tonight, they battle the division rival Tampa Bay Lightning from Amalie Arena
- There are several other games on the schedule that carry heavy Stanley Cup Playoffs implications for the Red Wings

Bottom Line: The Red Wings need points
There is no doubt that the Red Wings have to start compiling points in the standings if they have any intention of making the Stanley Cup Playoffs this spring, and they have the chance to do so against a division rival that they’ve already beaten twice this season.
Tonight’s game will start at 7:30 PM with television coverage on Bally Sports Detroit Extra.