34 replies to this topic

[evilzyme]

I think Babcock HAS to run a 50-50 split going into the playoffs. We don't want a tired Howard and we don't want a rusty Ozzie trying to salvage the playoffs if Howard falters.

With 13 games left I want to see 7 for Howard and 6 for Ozzie.

This exactly. As Osgood himself explained during Wingspan I believe it was, you can always practice non-stop during practice with the team but you can expect the shots and have a clear view, almost anticipate each shot. In real games, it's A LOT different. Osgood needs practice following the puck and moving to the speed of the game since his injury, the only way to warm him up and give Howard some time to get ready for the task ahead of him is to play Osgood.

[HankthaTank]

Eaves cleared to play Raf back on Wednesday. Excite

Detroit Red Wings coach Mike Babcock said forward Patrick Eaves (groin) has been cleared to play, but he hasn't set his lineup yet for Wednesday's game against the Washington Capitals (7:30 p.m., FSD). Eaves has missed the past eight games.“Once we know who's available we'll decide on the roster after that,'' Babcock said.

Defenseman Brian Rafalski (back spasms), as expected, will return to action in that game, after missing seven games. Chris Osgood will dress as Jimmy Howard's backup.

mlive

[Pucks]

I think Babcock HAS to run a 50-50 split going into the playoffs. We don't want a tired Howard and we don't want a rusty Ozzie trying to salvage the playoffs if Howard falters.

With 13 games left I want to see 7 for Howard and 6 for Ozzie.

Not gonna happen.

[brett]

a 100% full line up? bulls*** not possible

[LadyInRed]

Love to hear this. I'm happy to see both goaltenders healthy and alive. should be exciting to watch both of them perform
I just wonder when they hear all the Howie vs Ozzie debates, if they're way more competitive with eachother

[SDavis35]

I'm VERY surprised... I honestly thought he was done for good...

Ozzie, like most of our Wings, has always been a fighter (not in the physical sense). Remember how he responded to the doubters in 2009? Love the guy's attitude, and I had no doubt he'd come back Now to stick around another year... not so sure.

[SouthernWingsFan]

Good.

Very good.

[WingZNut13]

a 100% full line up? bulls*** not possible

I feel like I'm in the twilight zone...

[wings_fanatic]

And so here it is, finally the moment we have all been waiting for. But really, the debates never stopped because there have continued to be debates about the 2 goalies even with Ozzie being injured. BUT, if Ozzie outplays Howard in throughout these last 13 games, there is no doubt in my mind that he should be starter come playoff time because we all remember 2009 when Ozzie got going... he was the only reason we made it to the game 7 of the finals.

Side note, my bday is Wednesday and I am going to the game against the Caps so I would like Babs to give me a present... PLAY OZZIE !

[mmamolo]

I think there is a fine balance for how much Osgood should play down the stretch. Ya he needs game action to get the rust off but you dont need to over play him either because then Howard can go cold. I think maybe 8 or 9 for Howard and 4 or 5 for Osgood. But really it all depends on how Osgood and Howard play and what kind of points the Wings need/want

[wings_fanatic]

you dont want Howard to get cold?! I hate to break it to you, but he isnt exactly hot... look at his stats... he is still letting in 3 goals a game... IMO he has not yet earned the starter job for the playoffs... that is why the goalies should split games until the playoffs and whoever is playing better gets to play. That is how it should be.

[Vladifan]

Ozzie, like most of our Wings, has always been a fighter (not in the physical sense). Remember how he responded to the doubters in 2009? Love the guy's attitude, and I had no doubt he'd come back Now to stick around another year... not so sure.

The thing that hasn't been brought up enough is the extent of his injury. Did I not read that the tissue had pulled away from the bone or something equally serious? The guy has heart and grit and is now ready to come back to try to help his team.

Both goalies have my vote and total support.

[edicius]

Joey Mac recalled. Ozzie's got some soreness. Argh.

[WizardOfOz30]

but I'd rather have him back at 100% than risk injury as soon as he starts. I was sort of hoping it was because the wife was going to the hospital.

[Doc Holliday]

Joey Mac recalled. Ozzie's got some soreness. Argh.

Your avatar describes my mood perfectly right now.