Flurry

At the very least, the Red Wings brought the pain in Game 4. It was the type of dominant performance that I haven't seen from the Wings all year. Despite the nightmare beginning, the Red Wings responded with the energy, tenacity, and downright power they'll need to propel them through the playoffs.

After tying the score at 1-1, the line of Franzen, Hossa, and Filppula completely dominated the Ducks. They were a threat to score on every shift. Then Franzen netted his second of the night, but, instead of hanging back, the Wings kept up the pressure. Seconds after the goal, the Wings were back in the zone, pressuring. It was a flurry of skaters, relentlessly attacking. The Ducks would steal the puck, and the Wings would steal it right back, charging forward. I was thinking that, if I was a Duck fan, I would've been extremely frustrated. The Wings had all the mojo.

Then, somehow the Ducks evened the score at 2. At that point, I started thinking about US/Mexico soccer games. The Mexicans always dominate possession, but somehow the Americans find a way to score against the run of play. The Ducks were pretty lucky to find the net, and it seemed like Fate may be on their side. Prior to the Duck goal, Zetterberg hit the post, Lebda almost scored from short range, and Kronwall made a wonderful rush to net, past 3 defenders, but couldn't lift his shot over Hiller's stick. It didn't matter. The Franzen, Hossa, Filppula line would come through yet again. In a matter of minutes, Hossa scored twice for the 4-2 lead.

And how sweet was it watching Hiller get pulled? The dude who stoned the Wings in the previous two games, sulking back to the bench? Yes, it was only one win, but it was awesome watching the Wings dominate and maximize their skill.