Wings' Rafalski to Miss Series Opener

The Detroit Red Wings are one of the deepest offensive teams in the NHL. Unfortunately for them, they don't boast similar defensive depth. Instead, they tend to lean on their puck possession and scoring to mask some flaws along the blue line and in goal.

As a result, news that veteran puck-moving defenseman Brian Rafalski will miss Game 1 of the Wings' Western Conference semifinal series against Anaheim is not good. It's not a death blow -- as an injury to Nicklas Lidstrom would be -- but it's not a good way for Detroit to start this series.

Rafalski is a top offensive defenseman, and he won't be easy for the Wings to replace. Coach Mike Babcock has a plan, however. Rookie Jonathan Ericsson will get the nod to take over much of Rafalski's role.

Ericsson, who's been solid since being called up from Grand Rapids in late February, faces his biggest challenge, getting matched up against Anaheim's big line of Ryan Getzlaf, Corey Perry and Bobby Ryan.

"Thank goodness we have him,'' Babcock said. "It's going to be a good opportunity for him because he's going to match up against the Getzlaf line. He's a big body, he can skate well, looks like Chris Pronger, he's a good passer. He doesn't cross-check and do that stuff but does the rest.''

It's a heck of a test, and only the Wings, with their sound fundamental play all over the ice, would even dream of making a move like this when other veterans are available.

Instead of moving in a guy like Niklas Kronwall or Brad Stuart, they go with Ericsson. Chris Chelios will emerge from press box captivity to make his 2009 playoff debut in Game 1, as he'll work with Brett Lebda. It's a bit risky, but could also be looked at as smart. This is the move that will be least disruptive to everyone's rhythm, and it allows a talented youngster to get his feet wet in a high-pressure situation without risking overexposure.