The NHL is back and fans and players alike are looking forward to the regular season. The Detroit Red Wings are consistently one of the better teams in hockey and have won 11 Stanley Cups. Currently the Detroit Red Wings 2013 Stanley Cup Odds are listed at 12/1, which ranks seventh best of any team in the NHL for this season.

According to sportsbook.ag, the Detroit Red Wings at 12/1 odds to win the Stanley Cup are a viable option for a team that has a chance. However, we think a good majority of the opinion based on oddsmakers is because of the pedigree of the Red Wings, and the way they are viewed in the public eye. This team has several question marks heading into the season and they have to replace captain Nikolas Lidstrom.

Henrik Zetterberg has been given that honor, according to reports, and he's going to have to take his game to the next level. He had just 22 goals last season and will be looking to be more of an offensive threat this season. Pavel Datsyuk provides another solid, quick center for the Red Wings while Johan Franzen is a goal machine. All three will be counted on this season by the Red Wings and their fans.

The team has been looking to get a bit more gritty on the ice and with the addition of Jordin Tootoo, they achieved some of that. Also, Mikael Samuelsson rejoins the team after a few years in Vancouver and Florida. But ultimately, defense will be the key for this team.

Jonathan Ericsson, Niklas Kronwall and Ian White will lead a defense that will have to replace a Hall of Famer and living legend in Lidstrom, who retired. If they can play at a high level all season, the Red Wings will be a tough team to beat.

2013 Stanley Cup Finals Odds

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