
The Detroit Red Wings were able to stretch their amazing post-season streak to 24 seasons this year, and they got paired with a first round matchup against division rival Tampa Bay Lightning. The Red Wings were in solid playoff position for the first five months of the season, and were even in contention for the top spot in the division. March would come along then, and the Red Wings would hit a slump that put them in danger of missing the playoffs for the first time in 24 years. The Red Wings would win two of their final three games, and earn 5 of 6 possible points, to clinch third place overall in the division.