Carolina Hurricanes: Three Keys to Extending the Win Streak in Motor City

Playoff mentality for a full 60

In the thick of the playoff race, the Carolina Hurricanes need to treat each and every game as a must win down the stretch.  It doesn’t matter who their opponent is or their position in the standings, they have to focus on their game and play with desperation each and every night.

In tonight’s case, the Detroit Red Wings are on pace to finish the year with one of the worst statistical seasons in recent memory. Mathematically eliminated from the playoff picture even before the trade deadline, their players have nothing to lose.

With only 39 points in the standings compared to at least 60 by the rest of the league, it’s easy for players to quickly look past this game on the schedule.

But, with how close the league is today, the Canes still need to come out with a strong effort, not only at the start, but for an entire 60. Like every team, the Wings have a couple of young, highly skilled forwards that will make you pay if you give them too much time and space.

Detroit’s top trio of Anthony Mantha, Dylan larkin and Tyler Bertuzzi combined for 11 points in their most recent victory over Tampa this past Sunday. Should the Canes put their best effort forward, it will go a long way in shutting down the Wing’s top line. When that trio is off the score sheet, there isn’t much depth on their roster to win many games.