Wings tie the series

Detroit started this game on a mission.  Bertuzzi fought Weber about a minute and a half into the game.  Although Bertuzzi didn't deliver the ass kicking that most of the state would have liked to see, it still sent a message to Nashville.  Ian White opened up the scoring for Detroit 8:25 into the game, with an absolutely fantastic wrist shot from just outside the circle.  Cory Emmerton added a goal on a 2-1 with Nyquist, sniping the top shel just above Rinne's blocker.  Hopefully that is the first of many playoff goals for Emmerton.  Nashville made it a 2-1 game, as Kostitsyn found the back of the net, only for Stuart to knock one in off Franzen's leg 56 seconds later.  Shea Weber made it interesting late in the third period, adding a goal for Nashville on a nice backhand over Howard's blocker, for a 3-2 Detroit lead.  Detroit was abe to close out the game though, earning a 3-2 victory in Nashville, giving Detroit home-ice advantage right now in the series.  Some interesting observations:

• Detroit had 3 times as many penalties as Nashville (6-2), something that has to change.  Although Detroit's PK has been fantastic, you can't expect Nashville's PP to go 0-series.  
• Howard played outstanding tonight.  He had saves on some point blank opportunities that I was amazed he stopped.  He was easily Detroit's best player tonight, helping keep Nashville off the board on several occasions.  
• Nyquist really stepped up tonight.  He had some decent plays, and seemed to excel when playing on Datsyuk's line early in the game.  Although it probably won't happen, it would be nice to see him get some time on the top line.
• With the Grand Rapids Griffins being eliminated from playoff contention, that loud noise you heard was several Griffins heading east.  Look for Smith, Janik, and Tatar to be among the black aces this year, although I would love to see Smith get a game in over Quincey, who is riding the struggle bus lately.  
• The series shifts back to Detroit for games 3 and 4.  These are two crucial games for Detroit, since it would be ideal for them to lead 3-1, with a chance to close it out in game 5 (unlikely) or game 6 in Detroit.  Although this is a dream scenario, if the Wings cut down some of the slow play after the two goal lead tonight, it is not impossible for them to take both games at home.  Either way, I'm stoked for Sunday.  

LGRW!!