Blame recurring Edmonton inefficiency for the Oilers succumbing to the Sabres Monday night; noting its many streaky quirks, Buffalo had lost six straight prior, with goalie Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen often seeming befuddled. His GAA is still a subpar 3.91 this month, but Lindy Ruff remains reluctant to give backup James Reimer much work; UPL, then, would have right to look a little worn down as the season progresses. But as Detroit seems to be finding ways to lose in its own six-game skid, with the defense and GK Cam Talbot suffering too many brief, inexplicable funks, perhaps a better idea is to respect the Sabres' recent over pattern that while not hitting on Monday is still on a 9-5 run. Play Sabres-Red Wings Over.

About 10 days ago, Detroit was atop the Eastern Conference WC race and about -120 to make the playoffs. Now the Wings are +900 to make it as they have lost six straight and are four points out of the final WC spot. So while this isn't officially a must-win, it basically is. You can't lose at home to the worst team in the conference at this late date in this situation and hope to make the playoffs. One key Buffalo player, JJ Peterka (19G, 32A) is in doubt due to injury. The Wings are dead to me if they lose here.