Faceoff Factor

Red Wing Roundup - May 25th

Ashley Gallant | National Hockey League

May 25, 11:31 AM | Hype this story!

Update on the Mule

TSN is reporting that doctors cleared Johan Franzen to participate in full practice with the Red Wings. He will be re-evaluated after practice on Sunday, and it is possible that he could be in the lineup on Monday.

Babcock scared of the Penguins

The Red Wings won the first game and completely shut down Pittsburgh’s top guns, but Mike Babcock isn’t about to get cocky.

According to the Detroit Free Press, Babcock disagrees with the thought that the Wings completely dominated the Penguins in the second and third periods.

“I think they’re an excellent, excellent hockey club and I think they’re scary,” he said.

Then again, what else is he supposed to say?

The Curse of Tomas Holmstrom?

Holmstrom has been parking himself in front of goaltenders for quite some time, and his reputation has caught the attention of the referees. Last night’s disallowed goal has led to some Detroit journalists to believe that the refs are out to get Holmstrom.

Dan O’Halloran is the focus of last night’s controversial call when he waived off Lidstrom’s goal because Holmstrom’s stick interfered with Fleury. He was also the same ref who called off a Lidstrom goal against Anaheim on February 10th because of goaltender interference by Holmstrom.

Is this a case of referees who are cracking down on goaltender interference, or of referees who are clearly influenced by Holmstrom’s reputation?