Skip navigation
Favorites
Sign up to follow your favorites on all your devices.
Sign up

Welcome back Niklas (Kronwall, Backstrom)

Blake Wheeler, Niklas Kronwall

Winnipeg Jets’ Blake Wheeler (26) is tripped up by Detroit Red Wings’ Niklas Kronwall (55), of Sweden, during the third period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, March 10, 2016, in Detroit. The Red Wings defeated the Jets 3-2. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

AP

It looks like the NHL will get a steep* increase in Niklas(es?) this weekend.

Probably most importantly, the Detroit Red Wings are getting Niklas Kronwall back from a knee injury as they face the Florida Panthers in an important game. There was some back-and-forth about how long he might be out, with some wondering if he’d barely play at all, so getting him in the lineup tonight is a nice bonus for a Red Wings team that needs every point right now.

The other Niklas is a fascinating one: the Calgary Flames are playing Niklas Backstrom in net on Sunday. It will be the former Minnesota Wild goalie’s first start in more than a year.

Maybe it’s a stretch to call this a theme, but either way, the Red Wings in particular have to be happy that they’re getting their Niklas back.

* - OK, just two guys.