Detroit Red Wings vs Carolina Hurricanes Picks and Predictions April 4th 2025

Hurricanes Rolling In While Red Wings Face Must-Win Situation

With just eight games left on the schedule, the Detroit Red Wings aren’t just skating for pride — they’re fighting for their postseason lives. Currently sitting outside the Eastern Conference playoff picture, Detroit is four points behind the Montreal Canadiens for the final wild-card spot. But it’s not just Montreal they need to leapfrog — both the Rangers and Columbus are in the way too.

To make matters worse, Detroit’s remaining matchups aren’t exactly friendly. Every single team they’ll face is already playoff-bound, and five of those contests are on the road. That’s why Friday’s home clash with the Carolina Hurricanes feels like a do-or-die battle. A loss could practically shut the playoff door.

Check out the latest NHL odds and scores to see how this high-stakes matchup is shaping up.

Carolina Hurricanes: Already In, Still Hungry

While Detroit scrambles for points, the Carolina Hurricanes are cruising with confidence. With their postseason ticket punched, they’re looking to fine-tune their game and lock in home-ice advantage. Sitting comfortably at second place in the Metropolitan Division, they’re nine points ahead of New Jersey and nine behind Washington — a sweet spot for playoff positioning.

Carolina is red-hot right now, riding a 12-2 run over their last 14 games, including a convincing 5-1 victory over Washington just days ago. Head coach Rod Brind’Amour summed it up:
“We know that we’re in… I like that we went and took it. We didn’t get it handed to us.”

Want more on where the Canes stand in the division? Dive into our Metropolitan Division odds & predictions.

Head-to-Head: Hurricanes Have Owned This Matchup

Detroit has more than just playoff math working against them — the Hurricanes have had their number. Carolina has beaten the Red Wings in six straight games, including two earlier this season: a tight 2-1 win on March 4 in Detroit and a 4-2 home win ten days later.

That dominance stretches back to last year too, when the Canes swept the season series. If Detroit wants to keep their postseason hopes alive, snapping that losing streak is non-negotiable.

Key to the Game: Special Teams Will Be the Difference

This game might come down to who handles special teams better — and we’ve got a battle of strengths and weaknesses.

Detroit has one of the NHL’s top power plays, ranking third at 28.4%. On the flip side, Carolina’s penalty kill is elite, sitting second in the league at 84.5%.

But it flips the other way, too. Carolina’s power play is mediocre at best (19.1%, 24th), and Detroit’s penalty kill has been downright dreadful — dead last at 69.0%.

Expect this tug-of-war to shape momentum and likely decide who comes out on top. For more expert insight on betting angles like this, check out our full NHL betting guide.

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Red Wings’ Mental Game: No Room for Pouting

Detroit coach Todd McLellan knows his team doesn’t have the luxury of a slow bounce-back. After dropping three of their last four, including an overtime heartbreaker in St. Louis, the message is clear: stay sharp and stay tough.

“We can either feel sorry for ourselves… or we can get right back after it,” McLellan said. “It’s not like we’re in the middle of the season and can take the time to pout a little bit. We don’t have that.”

It’s win-now or go home.

Stay updated on Red Wings’ chances through our latest NHL picks and predictions.

FAQs

How many games do the Red Wings have left?

Detroit has 8 games remaining in the regular season — and they’ll all be against playoff-positioned teams.

Are the Red Wings still in playoff contention?

Yes, but barely. They’re 4 points out of a wild-card spot and must win almost every remaining game.

How many times has Carolina beaten Detroit in a row?

Carolina is on a six-game winning streak against Detroit, including two victories this season.

Who’s leading the Metropolitan Division?

Washington currently leads the Metro Division, with Carolina sitting in second place.

What’s the biggest matchup factor in the Red Wings vs. Hurricanes game?

Special teams will likely be the key — Detroit’s power play vs. Carolina’s penalty kill.

Where can I get more NHL betting tips?

Explore our NHL expert betting guide for strategies, stats, and smart picks.