The math wizards in the NHL have worked out all the formulas and concluded the Red Wings can clinch a playoff berth for a staggering 21st consecutive season tonight with a victory over Columbus.
There’s another way the Wings can do it. If the Wings gain at least a point, and both San Jose and Los Angeles lose in regulation, that would also clinch yet another playoff appearance.
Of the four major sports, the Wings have the current longest streak of playoff appearances. The NBA’s San Antonio Spurs have the next longest playoff streak at 14 years.
The Wings still have some work to do to match the NHL’s longest streak. The Boston Bruins own that record, having gone to the playoffs 29 consecutive seasons from 1967-68 to 1995-96.
Detroit Red Wings
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