Seven Days: Detroit (Atlantic - 3rd)

Detroit has a lot of firepower even still, despite being a team on the downslope after around 20 years on or near the top. They aren't as good as they were, but don't count them out. A great showing against Washington that showed just how dangerous the forwards are - they don't need much space to get good shots on a goalie.

Offense:
It seemed like Justin Abdelkader was going to have a break out year, he's been cold of late until this week. Now it's Henrik Zetterberg turn to chill. Tomas Tatar, Dylan Larkin, and Gustav Nyquist have been producing. If Pavel Datsyuk returns to form soon, this top six has a lot of firepower.

Defense:
Mike Green does what Mike Green does - create offense at the expense of defense. Danny DeKeyser had a solid seven days.

Goalies:
Jimmy Howard and Petr Mrazek have had moments with no help but have still mostly played simple, good goaltending.

Next Seven:
Wednesday Washington visits
Friday Los Angeles visits
Saturday at St. Louis

Well, here's are three games that can set Detroit in the upper tier teams. Any win here is good. Pavel Datsyuk being back could make an impact this next seven.

1pt

Last Seven:
Win 1 - 0 (OT) Washington
Loss 2 - 3 San Jose
Loss 1 - 3 at Boston
Win 4 - 3 (OT) at Ottawa

Beating a good Washington team should have broken this week open. Oh well, still 4pts isn't terrible, unless you are expecting to make the playoffs.

Injuries:
No major injuries. Some players may return this week.

seven days Nov. 10th - 16th