Red Wings defenceman Danny DeKeyser out at least 3 to 4 weeks with separated left shoulder

DETROIT - The Detroit Red Wings have taken a big hit on their blue line.

Detroit defenceman Danny DeKeyser is expected to be out for at least three to four weeks with a separated left shoulder. The team doesn't expect him to need surgery.

DeKeyser was hurt early in Tuesday night's 2-0 loss to the Nashville Predators when he checked into the boards by Predators forward Patric Hornqvist. DeKeyser ranks among rookie leaders with seven assists and has scored two goals.

The Red Wings will host Carolina on Thursday night, hoping to snap a pair of skids.

Detroit has gone eight games without a win at home, its longest drought since 1991. The Red Wings haven't won a game anywhere in seven games, their longest stretch since 2002.