December 24

 

Merry Christmas Everyone!

 

Jonathan Cheechoo (groin) is expected back in the lineup Wednesday.

 

The Detroit News is trumpeting the return of the Dominator. A couple of weeks ago, the NHL made him a star of the week. But I don't trust him and I don't think he is back. In fact, I still think Osgood is the better option in Detroit. The reason? In nine of the last 12 games that Hasek started, the Red Wings let 20 shots or less get through to him. I mean… c'mon! If he doesn't win those, he shouldn't be in the NHL!

 

Martin Erat missed two games now with a virus, but there are rumblings that it could be a concussion. We shall see.

 

Shea Weber didn't play Sunday because of a leg injury.

 

'The Master' Shawn Bates is out for the season again. This time because of hip surgery.

 

David Bolland broke his finger in yesterday's contest and will be out indefinitely.

 

Glen Murray will be out for at least another week with his hip flexor.

 

Phil Kessel was benched for much of yesterday's contest due to poor defensive play.

 

Patrice Bergeron tried the stationary bike but quickly grew nautious. I doubt we'll see him before March.

 

Zach Parise missed yesterday's contest because of the flu.

 

Karel Rachunek missed yesterday's game because of a leg injury. He is day-to-day.

 

Goalless in his last 17 games, Petr Prucha was a healthy scratch yesterday.

 

The Panthers have sent Anthony Stewart back to the minors.

 

Joe Corvo missed yesterday's contest with a groin injury. he is day to day.

 

Mattias Ohlund missed the game because of back spasms, but it was 'just precautionary'.