Detroit Red Wings goaltender Petr Mrazek is set to make his much-anticipated return to the franchise where he spent the first six years of his NHL career. Scheduled to start against the Buffalo Sabres on March 12, 2025, Mrazek expressed excitement about rejoining the team he was drafted by back in 2010, dubbing it "where it all started."
Mrazek, who last donned the Red Wings jersey on February 18, 2018, was acquired from the Chicago Blackhawks just before the NHL trade deadline on March 7. Along with forward Craig Smith, Mrazek came back to Detroit, with the Red Wings sending forward Joe Veleno to Chicago as part of the transaction. This return feels particularly special for Mrazek. "I know the place and a lot of people in Detroit, so it’s nice. The time flew by quickly, and I’m back," he said, reflecting on his past with the franchise.
On the ice, Mrazek will be sporting No. 43, unlike his previous number 34, which is currently assigned to goaltender Alex Lyon. Starting this game presents not just a personal milestone but also serves as hope for the Red Wings who are grappling with their own challenges this season. With 66 points from 30 wins, 28 losses, and six overtime losses, currently, the Red Wings find themselves hanging around the playoff bubble, needing to leapfrog several teams to secure a wild card spot.
Head Coach Todd McLellan sees Mrazek’s return as beneficial for the team's goaltending situation. Despite the Wings having three goaltenders, including Cam Talbot and Lyon along with Mrazek, McLellan believes they can manage the dynamics effectively. "It's not like he's a brand-new guy," McLellan noted, citing Mrazek’s familiarity with both the team and the organization. "He's familiar with a lot of faces... Hence, having him around the team has been helpful during his transition back."
The Red Wings’ need for Mrazek stems from their recent performance; having lost six consecutive games and compiled a 2-7-1 record over their last ten outings. This slump resonates deeply as the calendar approaches the end of the regular season, creating increased pressure on the players. McLellan is making efforts to remind his team of their capabilities, having enjoyed some strong winning streaks earlier this season. "We’re trying to remind them they've played some real good hockey and gone on good, long winning streaks," he said, highlighting the importance of maintaining morale.
On the other side of the ice, the Sabres have also been struggling, with just 56 points from 25 wins, 32 losses, and six overtime losses. Both teams seem to be at pivotal breaking points, and this game could serve as a defining moment for one, if not both of them. The outcome could potentially shift the momentum needed to steer their seasons back on course.
Another encouraging sign for the Red Wings is the emergence of rookie Marco Kasper, who's been simply fearless on the ice. McLellan praised Kasper’s aggressive play style, emphasizing his willingness to drive toward the net and absorb contact, which have been invaluable traits during this challenging phase of the season.
The Red Wings hope Mrazek’s experience and familiarity with the organization will provide the necessary spark they need moving forward. With the puck set to drop at 7:30 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena, fans will be watching closely to see if Mrazek can breathe new life, not only for himself but for the entire Red Wings squad. The stakes are high, yet the potential rewards for both teams remain equally significant as they strive to make the postseason.