Johan Franzen (illness) is expected to play Friday against the Islanders, Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Franzen (illness) is expected to play Friday against the Islanders, Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press reports.

Analysis:

It doesn't sound like Franzen has experienced any symptoms related to the mumps virus that has been making its way around the league, so with a couple more days to recuperate, he should be ready to play. His availability for Friday's game should be confirmed after the Red Wings hold their morning skate that day.