Scouting the Blackhawks

Tonight's faceoff

Blackhawks vs. Detroit Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena, 6:30 p.m.

TV: Comcast SportsNet

Radio: WGN 720-AM.

At a glance: Thanks to a team-record 9 straight wins, the Hawks have pulled within 4 points of first-place Detroit in the Central Division and have two games in hand. The Red Wings lead the season series 2-0, winning both times in a shootout, but they are expected to be without Norris Trophy-winning defenseman Nicklas Lidstrom (swollen ankle). Detroit is second in the NHL on the power play and the Hawks rank fourth.

Next: Detroit Red Wings at Wrigley Field, noon Thursday.