Detroit Red Wings announce discouraging health updates on two players

It's an all-important matchup for the Detroit Red Wings tonight at Little Caesars Arena, as they bring in the struggling divisional foe Boston Bruins for an Original 6 matchup with heavy playoff implications.

The Red Wings remain 3 points out of the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference, while the Bruins have tumbled out of the race with 7 straight losses.

Following today's practice, Todd McLellan announced some discouraging health updates on a pair of key players.

Forward Elmer Soderblom will not be playing tonight and may not be ready for their next game on Tuesday against the red-hot St. Louis Blues.

He has 10 points (4G, 6) in 23 games since being re-called from the Grand Rapids Griffins in January.

Additionally, there was no additional update on the condition of goaltender Petr Mrazek, who was hurt on Monday night against the Utah Hockey Club and hasn't so much as practiced since then.

Goaltender Alex Lyon was thrust into action on Monday after Mrazek was hurt in a collision with Utah forward Dylan Guenther just minutes into the contest; he picked up the win.

Unfortunately, he wasn't able to help Detroit beat the Colorado Avalanche the next night, dropping a 5-2 final. He was then pulled after the 1st period on Thursday night against the Ottawa Senators after surrendering 2 goals on the first 3 shots he faced.

Cam Talbot will get the start in net for Detroit tonight against Boston.

It's a massive pair of points on the line for the Red Wings, who cannot afford to drop a game against the Bruins after they've lost 7 straight.