Helene St. James

Detroit Free Press

Rather than stress out about an opponent who has given them fits, the emphasis is on enjoying the challenge.

The Detroit Red Wings play hosts for the last time this regular season Wednesday when they take on the Philadelphia Flyers, one of the teams closest in the playoff race. The Wings lost the first two meetings this season against the Flyers, but are confident of a more charming result the third time thanks to confidence buoyed by winning.

"We've been playing really good the last several games, so just go out there and try and get the job done," goaltender Jimmy Howard said Tuesday. "We've just got to be smart with the puck and not turn it over. It's imperative we get off to a good start, and I think we won't have an issue doing that."

There should be no lack in motivation to win: The Wings are fighting to make the playoffs, and are in a fierce battle for positioning with the Flyers. The game's magnitude is furthered by the fact the Wings have a tough turn-around by going into Boston on Thursday to play a Bruins team also within close range.

"We want to play a complete 60 minutes, we want to be on our toes and get them on their heels," coach Jeff Blashill said. "When momentum goes against us, we need to make sure we recapture it as quick as possible. Should be a great game. We're excited for it.

"Let's enjoy this. Let's enjoy the great opportunity we have ahead of us."

Howard is expected to get the start, but Blashill wouldn't confirm that or the lineup. Based on practice, it looks like there won't be any changes from the lineup that has won the last two games. Tomas Tatar was hit in the leg by a puck during practice, but said he's fine.

The Wings have had problems with the Flyers, most recently in a poor performance March 15 at Philadelphia that led to a 4-3 loss. The Wings trailed 2-0 in the first period, which saw them give up 23 shots.

"They like to get in on the forecheck and bang and try to get you to turn pucks over," Howard said. "They've got guys that can put the puck in the net just because they go to the hard areas. Guys in front constantly try to wreak havoc on the goalie. It's something we have to play through."

Blashill cited good breakouts as one key to countering the Flyers' physical play. "We need to get back fast as a group of five and get out of there as quick as we can," he said. "The quicker we are, the less chance they are going to be able to hit you and be physical."

The Flyers prevailed in a shootout, 2-1, at Joe Louis Arena back in January.

"They're a tough team to play," Gustav Nyquist said. "They are a physical team but at the same time they can skate well, too. They have some dangerous players that can make you pay for turnovers, as well. So we've just got to keep the same focus of not turning the puck over. That's been the biggest problem in games we've lost."

The Wings solidified their standing with back-to-back games against Minnesota and at Toronto this past weekend, looking especially good defensively against the Wild. It's also helped that the power play has converted eight straight games, that the Wings have managed to build leads rather than chase.

"It's different for team confidence when you score first and hold onto the lead a little bit," Tatar said. "Guys are feeling better. Your hands are not as shaky. To have a lead, especially at home, is really big."

The Wings hope being at home will help them as Philadelphia fans always helps the Flyers.

"The last game against Minny, the crowd was outstanding," Tatar said. "It gets you going, for sure."

Contact Helene St. James: hstjames@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @helenestjames.

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