Kirsten Sims interview as the battle between Wings and Caps approaches

Ted Kourfan looks at the Red Wings' improved playoff chances after winning three of their last four games, and Wisconsin forward Kirsten Sims is a guest on the podcast.

A week ago, the Red Wings had lost seven straight, their eight-point playoff cushion was gone, and the Capitals and Islanders were hot on their heels.

The Wings currently lead by one point over the Capitals as Washington beat Carolina 6-5 on Friday night, heading into Saturday's game against the playoff-bound Predators in Nashville, who have lost six to the Islanders. They have a 5 point lead. Detroit is minus-3 on Thursday.

“If that lineup (Red Wings) is healthy and at full strength, that means we have a lot of depth and a lot of guys who can score,” Kourfan said on the podcast. “You'd wonder about the goaltending. James Reimer tends to give up one soft goal a game, but he certainly competes there and has veteran experience.”