Red Wings Holding Their Breath on Jimmy Howard Injury

The Detroit Red Wings are hoping for the best this morning on the injury to Jimmy Howard that occurred on a goal by Joffrey Lupul in their game against Toronto where Lupul fell on top of the goalie who was knocked down on the play.

The injury is more problematic because Chris Osgood may or may not be able to return from his groin injury that does not seem to be healing as expected. Craig Custance made the point last week that it was all on Howard and now his health is in question.

This morning, according to Jennifer Howard, neither Howard or Osgood are anywhere to be found at practice. Better news comes from Ansar Kahn who quotes Wings GM who claims that it is an "upper body injury" that is not significant and that he will be "day to day."

Holland also indicated that another goalie would be recalled to back up Joey MacDonald for Monday's game with Chicago.

The Wings have led the Central Division for most of the season and currently have a five point cushion over the Nashville Predators. The Predators are on a six game winning streak and host the Wings next Saturday at the Bridgestone Arena.

The Wings' most immediate issue is the battle for second in the Western Conference with San Jose. The Wings and the Sharks both have 97 points but Detroit has a game in hand.

Therefore, will all their eggs in Howard's basket for the post season, the Wings are caught between a rock and a hard place as they want to get Howard back as soon as possible to maintain their position in the standings but also want to see him healthy for what they hope will be a long postseason run.

More Later...

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