The Detroit Red Wings first task post-Olympic break is to end a nine-year playoff drought. And if they accomplish that, there is a chance for the first Montreal Canadiens vs. Detroit Red Wings playoff series in 48 years.

If the playoffs were based on today’s standings, that Original six matchup would be one of the highlights of the first round.

Gordie Howe. Rocket Richard. Terry Sawchuk. Jacques Plante. Olympia Stadium. Montreal Forum.  Jack Adams. Frank Selke. Two classic jerseys. Plenty of memorable history.

Based on this year’s results and standings, Montreal vs. Detroit would be an evenly matched series.

The last time the two teams met was in the second round in 1977-78 when the Habs won a five-game series. The two teams also met in the 1966 Stanley Cup Final when Montreal won in six games. The two storied franchises have met in 12 different series, and the Red Wings have won seven of the them.

It is also possible that Detroit’s first round matchup could also be against the Pittsburgh Penguins, recreating some of the rivalry feelings from the 2008 and 2009 Stanley Cup Finals.

Another intriguing possibility would be Detroit vs. Buffalo. The two teams have never met in a postseason series. Of course, both teams have to qualify first. The Sabres are in a 14-year postseason drought.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Detroit’s offensive struggles over the team’s last five games highlights the need for GM Steve Yzerman to add a scorer before the March 6 NHL trade deadline.

Bob Duff looks at the Red Wings’ plans to televise the team’s game next season.

Red Wings Extra

Since scoring his 499th and 500 NHL goals, Patrick Kane has gone 13 games without a goal. He has six assists in the span. Given the Red Wings’ recent offensive struggles, a strong stretch drive by Kane seems crucial for the Red Wings’ playoff hopes.

Red Wings Digest

Florida: Paul Maurice was ejected and  goalie Daniil Tarasov was injured in the Panthers’ loss: Florida Panthers. 

New Jersey: Devils are proving again that you cannot win if you cannot score. New Jersey Devils 

Philadelphia: William James looks at whether Emil Andrae has fallen out of the Flyers defensive rotation. Philadelphia Flyers. 

San Jose: Sheng Peng looks at whether the Sharks’ playoff hopes are slipping away. San Jose Sharks.

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