The Detroit News’s Gregg Krupa penned a second notebook article in which he spoke with Jimmy Howard regarding his current status as a back-up, and Howard talked about his appearance against the Bruins as well:
“I felt fine [Wednesday],” Howard said. “You know, just a couple of breaks and they ended up back in the net.”
After a slow start by the Wings, they were down about two-to-one in shots for the first 40 minutes before finding pace and possessing the puck more in the third period. As has often been the case this season, the team asked the goalie to hold them in the game, while they searched for offense.
Howard said that after his play declined a bit and Petr Mrazek began starting more games, he did not seek to change much.
“Basically, we actually did a little less,” Howard said. “We’re doing a little less in the net. I’ve backed up a little bit instead of coming too far out, and being able to read the shots a little better.”
Howard said it is a matter of waiting and staying prepared. But the victories seem to be dictating who is in net.
“Just wait until it’s your turn and try to go out and win games,” he said.
In 39 games, Howard has a 2.82 goals against average and a .911 save percentage. Mrazek has a 2.75 goal against average and a .914 save percentage in 19 games played.
Krupa’s notebook continues…
