Deep Chicago Blackhawks present giant playoff challenge for Detroit Red Wings' defense

Chicago Blackhawks' Marian Hossa (81) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal during the first period of Game 5 of an NHL hockey Stanley Cup first-round playoff series against the Minnesota Wild in Chicago, Thursday, May 9, 2013. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh) (The Associated Press)

The Detroit Red Wings celebrate their 3-2 win over the Anaheim Ducks in Game 7 of their first-round NHL hockey Stanley Cup playoff series in Anaheim, Calif., Sunday, May 12, 2013. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson) (The Associated Press)

The Chicago Blackhawks have waves of talented lines, making them a difficult matchup for any team. Months after Nicklas Lidstrom retired, they pose quite the challenge for the Detroit Red Wings in their second-round playoff series that begins Wednesday night.

Chicago's deep group of forwards against Detroit's refurbished defense is one major area to watch when the Blackhawks host the Red Wings in Game 1.

Detroit coach Mike Babcock says the Blackhawks will test his defensemen, while Chicago coach Joel Quenneville says the Red Wings have improved over the course of the season.