Blackhawks–Red Wings rivalry

The Blackhawks–Red Wings rivalry is a National Hockey League (NHL) rivalry between the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings. Prior to the league-wide divisional realignment in 2013–14, it was the most intense rivalry in the Central Division during the post-lockout era. They represent the two largest metropolitan areas in the Midwest and are only separated by a 280-mile stretch of road, mostly covered by I-94. The clubs began playing each other in 1926–27, during the inaugural season for both franchises. These two clubs have faced each other in more regular season games than any other two teams in NHL history, only the Bruins–Canadiens rivalry exceeds them in total games played when Stanley Cup playoff games are included.