Detroit — It’s like Jimmy Howard was never gone.
Never mind Howard was out for nearly three months with a sprained knee, had a minor setback while rehabilitating in minor league affiliate Grand Rapids, and jumped back into the NHL with everyone speeding into the homestretch of the season.
It just hasn’t mattered.
Howard has played pretty much like he did before he got hurt Dec. 20 — which is, statistically, among the best goaltenders in the league.
“He’s played really good,” coach Jeff Blashill said. “It’s hard to be out that long and it’s hard to predict that a guy is going to come back and play as good as he has.