NHL: Nashville 4, Detroit 1

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DETROIT, March 30 (UPI) -- Pekka Rinne turned aside 31 shots Friday and boosted Nashville to a 4-1 win over Detroit, giving Predators Coach Barry Trotz his 500th career victory.

Trotz is the only coach Nashville has ever had. He has led the Predators to six playoff appearances since the team began competing in the 1998-99 season.

Nashville is headed for another post-season trip, having already clinched a playoff spot. The Predators won for the third time in four games and handed the slumping Red Wings their eighth loss in 10 outings.

Nashville moved a point in front of Detroit for the fourth seed in the playoffs, which brings with it home-ice advantage in the opening round.

The Predators took a 2-0 lead in the second period on goals by Gabriel Bourque and Francis Bouillon. Alexander Radulov and Shea Weber tacked on scores on the third period.

Detroit's only goal came with 3:03 to play in regulation from Jiri Hudler.

Jimmy Howard returned to the Detroit goal for the first time since March 19 after suffering from a groin injury. He made 23 saves.