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Playoff picture: Red Wings, Jackets battling for final spot

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R.J. Umberger #18 of the Columbus Blue Jackets screens Jimmy Howard #35 of the Detroit Red Wings as James Wisniewski #21 of the Columbus Blue Jackets scores a power play goal with a shot from the blue line during the first period on February 2, 2013 at Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio.

The Dallas Stars needed a win last night in San Jose.

They didn’t get it.

As a result, their playoff chances are down to just 4.8%, according to Sports Club Stats.

After the Stars’ stumble, it’s Detroit and Columbus who are battling closest for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference.

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The Red Wings host defending champion Los Angeles tonight (on NBCSN).

“L.A. is a great team,” Detroit forward Dan Cleary said, per ESPN.com. “They started the season with a bit of a lull, which happens. But they’re firing on all cylinders now.

“That team is rolling now. L.A. can’t win the division but they’re still jockeying for home ice. It’s a big game.”

Nashville’s at Joe Louis Arena tomorrow, then it’s a trip to Dallas Saturday for what may still be a big game.

As for the Jackets, they’ve only got two games left -- in Dallas Thursday, home to Nashville Saturday.