--After scoring seven goals Wednesday in Ottawa, the Wings have been shut out in consecutive games, despite having the second-most potent offense in the league. Last season, they were blanked on back-to-back occasions twice -- Nov. 25-27, by Atlanta and Calgary, and Dec. 20-23, both times by Chicago.

--Wings goaltender Jimmy Howard had a pair of his new McFarlane action figures in his stall after a practice this week. He was impressed by the six-inch toy's authenticity, right down to the actual equipment and the puck marks on the pads. He also is honored to be represented by the company. Howard, who grew up a Rangers fan, said his favorite action figure was of goalie Mike Richter.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"We had some clear-cut chances. But we're not putting the puck in the net. We're behind again and chasing and shooting the puck a lot more. It's something we want to do earlier in the game, get more shots to put pressure on their goalie and create chances that way." -- Wings captain Nicklas Lidstrom.

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