The Daily: Walman May Play Friday; Sprong Clears Waivers

Defenseman Jake Walman has made enough progress on his lower body injury to expect to play for the San Jose Sharks at Utah.

The former Red Wings player was hurt Dec. 21. He has missed seven games. Walman posted a goal and seven assists in the 10 games before his injury. The Red Wings traded Walman to San Jose over the summer.

Meanwhile, former Red Wings player Daniel Sprong cleared waivers today. The Seattle Kraken placed him waivers yesterday.

Both the Kraken (Sunday) and Sharks (Tuesday) will soon be visitors to Little Caesars Arena.

Walman back for a second-straight day of practice, good sign for tomorrow

— Sheng Peng (@Sheng_Peng) January 9, 2025

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

Ville Husso was recalled from the Grand Rapids Griffins because Alex Lyon has a minor injury.

Detroit coach Todd McLellan is still holding auditions for a spot on Detroit’s top line.

Detroit’s playoff outlook is messy. Columbus Blue Jackets and Pittsburgh Penguins are tied for the last wildcard spot in the East.

Red Wings Extra

Detroit’s five-game winning streak will be on the line Friday when the team is home to face the Chicago Blackhawks. The ‘Hawks have the NHL’s worst record (14-25-2). They are 2-6 in their last eight.  Detroit goalie Alex Lyon is day-to-day, and may be able to skate on Friday.

Hockey Now Network

Florida: Roberto Luongo vs. Henrik Lundqvist in an outdoor alumni game in Florida. Luongo has it all figured out. Florida Panthers.

Montreal: The Habs have a trade deadline plan, and they will stick to it, no matter where they are in the NHL standings. Montreal Canadiens. 

Pittsburgh: Erik Karlsson knows that his name will come up in trade rumors. But his focus is on helping the Penguins make the playoffs. The rest is out of his control. “It’s all up in the air,” he says. Pittsburgh Penguins.