Red Wings' Jimmy Howard: Nearing return

Howard (knee) participated in an optional practice in Detroit on Monday and is progressing toward a return.

Analysis:

The American netminder has missed 26 games and counting due to the injury suffered back on Dec. 20 against the Lightning. He reportedly took part in full practice drills during Monday's session and displayed full, unhindered mobility in the crease, something that bodes well in terms of returning to game action. With the Wings currently sitting seven points back of a playoff spot and owning a conference-worst team GAA of 2.97, the team could surely use Howard sooner rather than later -- especially since he was having the best season of his career (.934 save percentage, 1.96 GAA in 17 games) before being sidelined.