Niklas Kronwall played up to every single cent of his previously questioned $3 million dollar contract in a 4-2 win against Buffalo. He logged just under 26 minutes to lead the Wings in ice time, as well as logging 2 assists. The game on the Wings side was clearly controlled by Kronwall, the offense that Detroit has been missing as of February was fluid and attacking all beginning with Kronwall.

This season he has proven that when healthy he can be a great NHL defenseman. Staying healthy is key though, his seasons have been injury plagued, including last year’s playoffs.

Other game notes:

-Franzen played real well being involved in scrums and offensive opportunities.

-Maltby looked like the Kirk Maltby of old. He threw his weight around all night, and had an absolute rocket of a goal to help put the game away late in the third.

-Dallas Drake scored his first in 15.

-Brian Rafalski should be back by the next game Wednesday in St.Louis. However don’t be surprised if he doesn’t suit up, groin injuries are often tricky and Detroit won’t hesitate to rest him more to assure Rafalski doesn’t aggravate it again.

-Darren McCarty will be called up from his conditioning stint next Monday, don’t be surprised to see him action as soon as possible afterwards.

-Nik Lidstrom should be back within 10 days or so, but same thing that applies to Rafalski applies to Lidstrom.

Last but not least; finally a convincing win.

Something the Wings haven’t seen much of the last month.