Columbus at Detroit

The Redwings can be proud of another outstanding regular season, but not the way they closed out as they netted just two wins in their last eight games - a far cry from their 7-2 finish a year ago and 5-2 finish two years ago, so this game won't be a lay-up. There certainly won't be a lack of confidence coming from the Blue Jackets. The last time they stepped on the ice in Detroit, they came away with a resounding 8-2 decision and have claimed three wins against the defending Stanley Cup Champs in their last four meetings this season. The Blue Jackets have not only stepped up vs. the Redwings, but have won seven of their last nine against teams with a winning record, so they have a sharp mental edge to open this series. Long odds, but with a team that has to be confident off of taking three of four from the Wings, I'll take Columbus in this one.