History is on the side of the Red Wings, about 4-1 in a consensus of several sportsbooks odds-makers. Of 21 trips to the finals, the team has carried home the cup 10 times. The Senators, 5-1, have captured the cup only once: 1926-27.
Detroit posted the NHLs best record, 58-16, successfully blending an aging core of players and a stellar group of youngsters. But the Red Wings must dispose of early round foes quickly so they can survive a possible grueling seven-game war in the finals.
Leader Steve Yzerman is playing like he did when the team won back-to-back cups starting in 1996-97.
His 1,300th career point in the playoffs boosted him to second all-time on the team. Experiencing his first championship, the center was third in overall playoff points. The following year, the longtime Red Wings captain, 40, led playoff scoring with 24 points.
Nicklas Lidstrom, maybe the top NHL defenseman, dominates with quick puck movement and a dangerous point shot. At 35, he anchors the miserly defense while contributing offensively with 16 goals and 80 points.
Ottawas strength is a balanced lineup of skaters. Forwards Daniel Alfredsson, Dany Heatley, and...
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