Ted Kulfan
The Detroit News
Calgary, Alberta -- Jonathan Ericsson gets a do-over.
After playing one period -- or as Ericsson remembers it, "three shifts" -- before being sidelined with a bulging disc, he returns to the lineup tonight against the Flames.
"Definitely I want to get back in there and start over again," said Ericsson, who'll be paired with Nicklas Lidstrom.
Ericsson is also eager to get a start on erasing what was a disappointing season last year.
"I'm not worried about Big E, he's a great player," coach Mike Babcock said. "It didn't go the way he wanted last year, (but) he'll have a good year and we're convinced of that."
Watching practice Tuesday, Babcock was reminded why the 6-foot-6 Ericsson remains an intriguing prospect.
"Sometimes you have a player and when he's not around, you figure out how much you appreciate him," Babcock said.
Still, there are things Babcock wants to see from Ericsson on a regular basis.
"He has to make sure he's moving his feet, he's assertive, and he plays simple," he said.
Pairing Ericsson with Lidstrom, however, should make the transition easier.
"He's the best defenseman in the league and he makes it easier for any player," Ericsson said. "(The back) feels good. There was no pain or anything. It'll be different in a game, more intense, but I haven't felt anything (uncomfortable)."
Howard in goal
Chris Osgood (groin) didn't practice, but worked off ice, and expects to go on the ice for this morning skate.
Jimmy Howard (back spasms) will start tonight, but Osgood could be in net Friday against the Oilers.
"I didn't have any problems after sitting on the plane for so long," said Howard, who missed two games with the injury.
"Everything feels good."
Hudler likely out
Babcock will stick with the same lineup that won against Nashville, which means Jiri Hudler is likely to be a healthy scratch a second straight game.
"I'm not 100 percent certain, but at this point it's Huds," Babcock said.
But, Babcock wants to get Hudler back in the lineup Friday against Edmonton, which means someone else will sit.
And who will that be?
"When I say that (Hudler will play) I put myself in a bad spot," Babcock said. "I have no idea (who'll sit). "I'll be like you and just watch."
Red Wings at Flames
Faceoff: 9:30 tonight, Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary
TV/radio: FSD/WXYT
Outlook: The Wings are 1-0 against the Flames, who have lost their last two games, both at home, blowing early leads.
Nov. 3, 2010
