Injuries could spell a reprieve for Detroit Red Wings swingman Luke Witkowksi.
He cleared waivers Monday but was not assigned to the Grand Rapids Griffins. General manager Ken Holland said there are “too many moving parts with all the injuries” the Red Wings have ahead of Thursday's season opener against the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The Wings were off Monday. They expect to have a better handle Tuesday on who might be available Thursday among injured defensemen Niklas Kronwall, Jonathan Ericsson and Trevor Daley. Mike Green already has been ruled out. Forward Evgeny Svechnikov also is dealing with an injury.