An interesting discussion on the new episode of TOV about this week’s “must win”. Casey mentioned that he wouldn’t be that upset if the Wings lost tonight’s tilt against San Jose. And it sounded like the general consesus was that it could be something of a throw away game.

I’m all about focusing on the teams right ahead and in back of us. But let’s not forget the most important thing for the Wings right now and that’s points. Regardless of the opponant.

Kyle made the point that yes, they can skate with the Sharks, and there’s no reason to think that they can’t win this game. It shouldn’t be about whether a team is on their radar, as Joe said. The Sharks may be unreachable in terms of points, but that doesn’t mean they should toss the game away, or not work to play their best. The Wings are a good team too. Look at the roster–top end skill even with Franzen still out. Babcock said it’s all mental problems and I agree with his statement that you don’t suddenly forget how to make a tape to tape pass or how to shoot. It’s mental, and if the challenge of the Sharks will shake the Wings from their stupor, all the better.

There is zero reason why the Wings shouldn’t win this game. They won the last meeting 4-1, without Zetterberg, without Filppula, Kronwall and more. We know what this team is capable of; don’t discount their skill level. Being in 9th seed and looking up the standings is not an excuse to lose against the team currently residing in 1st. Not for this team. They need to play hard every single game.

Anyway. Ericsson is a healthy scratch tonight.

Why I agree with this: he clearly has struggled all season long, and hasn’t been able to play himself out of whatever funk he’s in. I know the whole defense is a bit messed up but he needs to figure out how to average his playoff performance into an 82 game regular season.

Why I dislike this: it means we’re stuck with both Meech AND Lebda tonight.

Holmstrom is back! It will be refreshing to have that net-front presence back.

Howard is in net.

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