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DETROIT (AP) — Jimmy Howard says he'll need to be ready if the Detroit Red Wings need him in the first round of the playoffs against Tampa Bay.
Howard will be Detroit's backup goalie in Game 1 on Thursday night. Coach Mike Babcock announced Monday that Petr Mrazek will start in net.
Howard said Tuesday that's Babcock's decision.
The Red Wings are trying to avoid thinking too much about the team's uncertain future as the playoffs approach. Babcock is in the final year of his contract, Henrik Zetterberg and Pavel Datsyuk aren't getting any younger — and Detroit has not advanced past the second round of the postseason since 2009.
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