DETROIT, MI - When the Calgary Flames roll into the Joe Louis Arena for the final time, they will face a Detroit Red Wings lineup bolstered by the return of forward Thomas Vanek.
The veteran has missed the last 11 games with a hip strain, a frustrating experience compounded by the team's struggles. In their last 10 games, the Red Wings are 2-7-1.
"It's never fun to be injured. It's never fun to watch," Vanek said after the Red Wings morning skate. "Obviously, it's especially harder when the team is losing, to watch. When you're not playing games and the team is going good, it's a lot easier.
"I'm looking forward to being back and hopefully can start contributing again."
The Other Side - Vanek returns to Red Wings lineup
The Red Wings will get the veteran back after he missed the past 11 games with a hip injury
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