Detroit expects Niklas Kronwall to be ready to play tonight. If he is good to go it'll be only his sixth game since he sustained a knee injury against Montreal on November 21, 2009. Kronwall also hopes to use tonight's game as a minor tune-up in preparation for representing Sweden as they attempt to defend Olympic Gold.
Kirk Maltby will replace Valtteri Filppula tonight, who is listed as day-to-day with a groin strain, and hopes to be fit to play for Finland in their first Olympic game.
"I'm concerned,'' Filppula said. "I definitely want to play (in the Olympics). I want to play tonight, too, but we'll have to see how it is. It's much better today than it was yesterday.''
Tonight's affair could also mark the final game of the season for Kirk Maltby as he battles through shoulder problems. Ken Holland said recently that Maltby would require surgery either now or at the end of the season. Surgery now would all but rule him out for the rest of the season.
With Brad May recently being waived, Patrick Eaves' foot injury and now Filppula's groin trouble, the Red Wings may end up short on forwards. Mike Babcock said he will dress seven defensemen and Derek Meech may play forward if necessary.
Jimmy Howard and Brian Elliot are expected to start in goal for their respective teams.
No comments:
Post a Comment