Wings Will Sit Jimmy Howard In Game 1

The anticipated NHL Playoffs matchup of former UMaine goalies Jimmy Howard and Ben Bishop will not happen, at least not in game one Thursday night.

Detroit coach Mike Babcock has decided to ride the hot hand of 23-year-old goalie Petr Mrazek instead of Howard when the series at Tampa Bay begins.

The Lightning will ride Ben Bishop who was 40 wins and GAA of 2.32. It will be Bishop's first start in a NHL playoff game.

The Red Wings and their goalie situation has been an issue this year. Howard struggled when he came back from an injury. Mrazek has been pretty good, a 16-9-2 record with a GAA of2.38. Howard played in 50 games, 23-13-11 and 2.44.

NOTE: Another former UMaine goalie, Scott Darling will serve as backup for the Chicago Blackhawks and their starter Corey Crawford.