I’m a bit out of the loop because I missed the game yesterday while Up North, so I’ll keep this to a minimum.

… Despite a miraculous level of health considering this season’s injury trends, Chicago is just six points ahead of the Wings. They do have two games in hand so that’s not quite as close as it looks, but this is an opportunity to gain in both categories.

… The Hawks’ position will definitely be helped by the arrival of Marian Hossa in the lineup. He’s got 10 points in 11 games. Another reason head-to-head meetings between these teams are important: the Wings have a direct say in the Hawks’ record and can work to shut down guys like Hossa.

… Chicago is without such luminaries Adam Burish, Dave Bolland and Ben Eager due to injury.

… Cristobal “Sorry, guys” Huet will be in net tonight for Chicago.

… The Wings are coming off a 4-3 loss to the Stars last night. I missed the game, but check out The Production Line’s take.

… No new injuries. I hope I can write that tomorrow too, but maybe that’s hoping for too much given Chicago’s collection of punks.

… Darren Helm returned from a wrist injury in Dallas and got 19:16 in ice time. Should be up there again. His speed and physicality will be helpful tonight.

… Todd Bertuzzi has 10 goals as of yesterday. Crazy, huh?

… Chris Osgood gets the start tonight. Right into the fire, Chris. Hope your head’s in it now.

… The Wings battled hard Thursday night against Tampa Bay and pulled out a win despite losing their 1B leader, Henrik Zetterberg, to a shoulder injury in the first period. They’ll need to dig even deeper tonight to be at Chicago team that is, admittedly, good (if overhyped).

Expect it (the digging). They’re going to be motivated tonight. As will be the Hawks. Should be a good game.

… If you don’t have FSD+, you’re out of luck on this one. Stupid, considering this is about as big as regular season hockey games get. Putting it in the FSD+ ghetto seems a bit idiotic.

George has the number list here, if you do get it.