Detroit Red Wings Seating Chart

If it's hockey season, it must mean good things are going on in Detroit, otherwise known as Hockeytown, USA.

When is the last time the Detroit Red Wings haven't been among the best teams in the NHL? I certainly can't remember.

The Red Wings hold a considerable lead in the Central Division despite the fact the goaltending play has been shaky at best.

The team has actually decided to make a change at goaltender, where veteran Chris Osgood will take a seat in favor of backup Jimmy Howard.

Osgood is 18-5 but giving up almost 3.3 goals per game and his save percentage is below 88. Most quality goaltenders have a save percentage above 90 and give up significantly less than three goals per game.

It's pretty amazing that a team with one of the best records in all of hockey has decided to switch goaltenders. That should give you a pretty good idea of just exactly how explosive Detroit's offense really is.

Pavel Datsyuk leads the club with 74 points, including a team-leading 49 assists. Marian Hossa leads the Red Wings with 33 goals.

Detroit plays a couple of top teams in its next five games, with the biggest matchup coming at home against the San Jose Sharks. The Sharks hold the honor for best record in the NHL, so it's a statement game for Detroit.

Detroit is in a fantastic position as they look to try and catch the Sharks and claim home-ice advantage throughout the NHL playoffs. At worst, they should end up as the No. 2 overall seed in the Western Conference.

The defending Stanley Cup champions certainly don't want to give up that trophy without a fight, and I'd expect the Red Wings to be a favorite to win back-to-back titles.