'Hawks-Wings Game 7 marks end of an era

In the 81st and final playoff meeting between the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings as members of the same conference before Detroit realigns to the East, each team will be attempting to stave off elimination in Wednesday's decisive Game 7 in Chicago.

Red Wings head coach Mike Babcock will rely on his young squad to rebound from their short losing streak and extend their season into the Western Conference finals. During the 2013 postseason, the Red Wings have had five players score their first career playoff goal, a statistic that speaks to the youth of Detroit's lineup. In order to win their second Game 7 on the road this postseason, the Red Wings must find a way to score on the power play, as they are just 1-for-22 in the series.

For Chicago, it's imperative to get off to a fast start and not fall behind early. As a veteran team playing at home, the Blackhawks will rely on a combination of Jonathan Toews and Marian Hossa on offense, while Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook will be expected to remain physical on the blueline.

The winner of tonight's matchup will play the winner of Tuesday night's Game 7 between the Los Angeles Kings and San Jose Sharks, which ended too late for this edition.