Detroit: Powerhouse Or Pretender?

When Sharks' captain Rob Blake launched the puck into the nosebleed section of the HP Pavilion, you couldn't help but feel that the all-powerful Sharks were nervous. This was after all, the imperturbable machine of Motown. Those suspicions were confirmed in due time as the Wings overran the current kings of the West and took a 4-2 decision in one of the toughest places in the league to get 2 points.

So, are the Wings back? Or did the Sharks just choke for some reason?

Probably a bit of both.

This game saw the return of Tomas Holmstrom as the Wings got yet another step closer to full-strength. Homer's impact was immediate, chipping in two assists in the opening frame. While the performance of the back-to-back Western champs on this night was undoubtedly reminiscent of previous years, only time will tell if they're once again the powerhouse we've all gotten so used to.

Locked in a tight playoff struggle, Detroit is in desperate need of wins, and lots of them. Now that the befallen stars of Hockeytown have almost all returned, perhaps we can now really see what this team is made of. A number of tests are awaiting the Wings, the first of them being tonight in Anaheim.

The Ducks too are fighting for their right for playoff qualification and as of late, their performances have reflected just that. This also marks the home debut of Jason Blake, who came to SoCal in the blockbuster Giguere trade. A repeat result of Detroit's last visit to 'The Ponda' is an almost certain indication that they've fooled us all!

Adversity builds character and Mike Babcock's chargers have seen that in spades. Their response has been commendable with some very gutsy victories, but overshadowed by some brutal losses. Now with consistency in the lineup, they'll need to show consistency on the ice.

It's very difficult to believe this experienced champion team won't make the playoffs, but can they genuinely contend? Everyone's sick of hearing about all the great forwards lost during the off-season. The attacking contingent right now, is one that can and should win. They're supported by one of the best defenses in the league and a solid starter in rookie, Jimmy Howard. The only question that remains, is if the Wings are serious about their return to dominance.