The Wings haven't had more than 12 forwards available until this week, when Tyler Motte is expected to return to the lineup.

The concerning thing right now is this team hasn't resembled last year's group. It's looked like a clear step back.

In two-plus seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, Olli Määttä established himself as a steady third-pair defenseman who played a simple game.

Buffalo has notched at least one power-play goal in eight of its last nine games against Detroit, including one in each of its last three against the Red Wings. In each of their last six wins against the Red Wings, the Sabres have recorded five or more goals.