On the Wings

Update (4:22 PM): Just noticed that there’s a line about Kopecky in Khan’s post that I don’t remember seeing before. Either I missed it when I first published this post or it was added later, after I asked him about it. - Matt

Update (4:12 PM):  Ted Kulfan clarifies the Holmstrom situation with comment from Tomas on returning to the lineup versus Chicago:

“That’s the plan right now. We’ll see how it feels. I’ll skate again tomorrow (Saturday in Dallas) and hopefully I’ll be able to play (Sunday).”

- Matt

Update (2:16 PM): I shot off an email to Ansar Khan a few minutes ago and have already heard back. Apparently, Tomas Kopecky told him he’s fine and that he’ll be in the lineup tomorrow.

He practiced both days since the injury, so obviously it wasn’t a big deal. - Matt

Ansar Khan reports:

… Kirk Maltby (back strain) is hoping to return to the lineup Tuesday night against the Avalanche. This is contrast with Helene St. James’ report of earlier this week that stated he was looking at a January 12th return. Obviously, he’s made some big strides since Wednesday.

… Tomas Holmstrom  (knee bruise) is confident he’d be able to play tomorrow in Dallas, but says the team won’t let him. He’s hoping to suit up for the game in Chicago on Sunday.

… Both Khan and Bruce MacLeod confirm once again that Dominik Hasek will start versus the Stars while Chris Osgood will face the Blackhawks.

… No word on Tomas Kopecky, who was reported by FSN Detroit to have suffered a hand injury in the third period Wednesday night. Either he’s fine or the media hasn’t picked up on it.

… Also, be sure to stop by HockeyTownTodd and wish Baroque happy birthday. And read her piece on Aaron Downey.

There’s also Abel to Yzerman, calling out the Detroit sports media “since 1977.”

… Lastly, be sure to check out the various player grades and mid-season reports the media has posted at the halfway point:

• Ansar Khan
• Bruce MacLeod
• Ted Kulfan
• Helene St. James