Rookie defenseman Danny DeKeyser (broken thumb) still hopes to play again for the Red Wings this postseason.
“As long as they keep winning here, that just gives me a better chance for a return with every win,” DeKeyser said, per ESPN. “I’m just hoping that the guys in here can keep winning and keep improving along the way. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance in a playoff game again.”
After undergoing a procedure that involved the insertion of a plate and screws into his hand, the 23-year-old was originally supposed to be sidelined until July.
Now, he’s talking about playing in the Western Conference finals -- if the Wings make it there.
DeKeyser -- a steady, though not spectacular, blue-liner that skates well and makes a good first pass -- signed with Detroit this season after a standout career at Western Michigan University.
Game 4 of the Wings’ series with the favored Blackhawks goes Thursday at Joe Louis Arena. Detroit leads the series, 2-1.