DETROIT, March 5 (UPI) -- Darren Helm scored twice Friday and Detroit produced the game's first four goals in coasting past Nashville 5-2.
The Red Wings have won three out of four following a four-game skid and enhanced their position in the tight Western Conference playoff chase. They began the night with a one-point lead over both St. Louis and Calgary for the eighth and final playoff berth.
Pavel Datsyuk and Tomas Holmstrom scored in the opening period and Helm delivered his two goals in the second. He broke the game open with a shorthanded goal 9:10 into the period for a 4-0 lead.
Nicklas Lidstrom recorded the 800th assist of his career when he set up Holmstrom for his goal. Lidstrom is the 28th NHL player to reach that plateau and the fourth to do so with the Red Wings.
Detroit has won three of its four meetings with the Predators this season. Jimmy Howard needed to make only 20 saves for the victory.
