Backed by a 30-save shutout from Jimmy Howard on Wednesday, the Detroit Red Wings picked up a 3-0 win against the Philadelphia Flyers, setting up a chance to clinch the playoffs with another victory Thursday against the Boston Bruins.
The Red Wings currently sit two points ahead of the Bruins for third place in the Atlantic, with two games remaining for each team. A win of any kind against their division rivals will book their ticket to the postseason for a record 25th consecutive year.
Atlantic race
| Team | GP | W | L | O | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Red Wings | 80 | 41 | 28 | 11 | 93 |
| Bruins | 80 | 41 | 30 | 9 | 91 |
Despite getting outshot 30-26 during Wednesday's win, defenseman Kyle Quincey is confident that if the Red Wings maintain their level of play, they'll be preparing for a first-round series with the Tampa Bay Lightning soon.
Kyle Quincey called this game a template for Red Wings. Says if they play like that vs. Bruins they'll win that game too.
— Craig Custance (@CraigCustance) April 7, 2016
Meanwhile, the Bruins remain tied with the Flyers for the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot at 91 points, but Philadelphia has a game in hand. They will also be in action Thursday, facing the league-worst Toronto Maple Leafs.
Wild-card race
| Team | GP | W | L | O | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flyers | 79 | 39 | 27 | 13 | 91 |
| Bruins | 80 | 41 | 30 | 9 | 91 |
