Red Wings back up to get another start.

Red Wings back up to get another start.

There's been a goaltending controversy brewing in Detroit, at least as far as the fan base is concerned. Tuesday's decision regarding the goaltending starts this week will likely only fan those flames in Hockeytown. Red Wings Head Coach Mike Babcock

HockeyFeed

HockeyFeed

There's been a goaltending controversy brewing in Detroit, at least as far as the fan base is concerned. Tuesday's decision regarding the goaltending starts this week will likely only fan those flames in Hockeytown. Red Wings Head Coach Mike Babcock announced today that both Petr Mrazek and Jimmy Howard will get a start this week, with Mrazek taking on the Panthers Thursday and Howard taking on the Lightning on Friday. While the decision is obviously a result of the back to back games on the schedule and nothing more, many fans will look at this as another opportunity to continue the Mrazek vs Hoaward debate. It's important to note that Mike Babcock has shown no signs that Jimmy Howard is anything other than his #1 goaltender, however there is a case to be made for giving Mrazek more starts. First and foremost many view Mrazek as the future of the organization while Howard is obviously the present, some fans feel he should be taking a step back. Their numbers are very similar  as well, Mrazek has a .914 save percentage a whopping .001 points better then Howards .913. However Howard leads the way with a GAA of of 2.38 against Mrazek's .2.47. Another stat that greatly favors the argument for Howard as the starter is the simple fact that he's played 24 more games. We believe Mike Babcock believes Howard gives him the best chance to win on a night to night basis, and we would be inclined to agree, despite flashes of brilliance Mrazek has struggled to be a consistent presence between the pipes for the Red Wings. Mrazek may be the future and as a result it could be in the Red Wings best interest to give him more playing time, but the NHL has a "win now" mentality, and Jimmy Howard is probably your best option in that regard. How do you feel about the goaltending situation in Detroit? Vote in our poll and if you'd like to explain your vote feel free to do so in the comments section below. [poll id="13"]

Newsletter

Get the latest news and updates directly in your inbox.

Source:
HockeyFeed

Stay ahead of the game with our exclusive hockey news, analysis and insider info.

© 2026 Attraction Web S.E.C. All rights reserved.