I don’t think there is any question the Red Wings helped themselves at the trade deadline. The question is, how much? Todd Bertuzzi, when he is heathy, is one of the best power forwards in the NHL. But is healthy? If he is - and he should be motivated because his career is in flux - he could help the Red Wings mightily during the playoffs. He has great hands and does score garbage goals in front of the net. He is skilled enough, even at his size, to maintain pace with the best puck possession team in the NHL. Now we have the answer to who can drop the gloves and fight if it is needed. I also liked the deal for Kyle Calder. He is just a better player than Jason Williams. He didn’t fit in that mess in Philly, like a lot of players these days. The Red Wings are in really good shape and should make a deep playoff run. If that happens, it will be kind of funny how this will become "Hockey Town" again. All these people will be jumping back on the bandwagon. The Red Wings have flown under the radar this season - too far under. I have a sense this will be their year. Yes, even relying on Dominik Hasek to stay healthy in goal.

Random Thoughts

- I know Drew Neitzel was under the weather, but the truth is, Michigan State didn’t look too motivated in their loss at Michigan Tuesday. That’s not good for the Spartans. They must take advantage of every opportunity to keep their foot on Michigan’s neck. As is, the Spartans really helped the Wolverines get off the mat. The idea in East Lansing should be to dominate Michigan in basketball for as long as possible. The Spartans didn’t play Tuesday as if they had that in mind.

- I can’t believe Edmonton traded Ryan Smyth to the Islanders. If there ever has been a player who fits Western Canada - and not New York - it is Ryan Smyth. I predict that deal will be a lose situation for all parties involved.

- The Pistons won the game Sunday, but I came away from it convinced their stiffest competition to reach the NBA Finals will come from the Bulls. That is especially true now that D. Wade is hurt in Miami. The reason: The Bulls can defend. They also have a solid perimeter game and can make outside shots.