Pregame: Red Wings @ Panthers – 12/28

Alright, it’s been awhile since I’ve done one of these. It’s also been awhile since Henrik Zetterberg has been in the lineup. Coincidence? I don’t know.

Zetterberg is back tonight as the Red Wings visit the Florida Panthers, the first game since December 1 for the Red Wings’ captain. So is Justin Abdelkader, who has recovered from his concussion.

Johan Franzen and Darren Helm are not back. Franzen is still experiencing dizziness and Helm… Who knows? Both are doubtful for the Winter Classic, let alone next Monday’s game in Nashville.

Jonathan Ericsson is newly-injured so Jakub Kindl slides back in on the blueline.

Jimmy Howard thinks he’ll be set to go on Monday but Jonas Gustavsson gets the start tonight, opposite Scott Clemmensen.

Stupid stat of the day: Detroit is 35-31-21 all-time in their first game of the season after Christmas.

Game time is 7:00 PM on FSD.