DETROIT - Jimmy Howard returns to the Detroit Red Wings net for the first time in 21/2 months tonight when the Chicago Blackhawks visit Joe Louis Arena (7:30, Fox Sports Detroit).
Howard has been out with a sprained right MCL suffered on Dec. 20 in Tampa Bay.
"It's been a long, grinding road, but I'm glad the day is finally here where I get to go back out there and play with the guys," Howard said.
Howard had a pair of two-game conditioning stints with the Grand Rapids Griffins. His return was delayed following a setback during his first assignment more than a month ago.