Pavel Datsyuk, the veteran scoring machine for the Red Wings made his return to the lineup in Thursday night's win over the Florida Panthers at Sunrise, Florida amongst much trepidation regarding his health - and while he was saying all of the right things to ease the fears of Red Wings' fans, the underlying atmosphere tension was hard to ignore.
At issue, Datsyuk's expressed desire to play for Russia in the Sochi Winter Games starting in just days after missing 14 games for Detroit with an unspecified knee injury, a scenario that general manager Ken Holland addressed several times in the past two weeks.
"Of course, I’m worried." Holland said on Sunday of his star forward putting his health on the line after missing so much time for the Red Wings this season. "But I understand what an opportunity this is for every Russian and every other player. Pavel has a decision to make and I understand that it’s his decision and I respect that it's his decision."
Coach Mike Babcock was far more pointed in his remarks leading up to the game, essentially questioning the motivation of his star forward.
“I just hope we’re doing the right thing,” Babcock said. “I hope we’re not bringing him back just because it’s the Olympics. I hope he’s actually ready and we’re going to find out tonight." adding, "One thing about getting back on the ice, you can’t hide out there."
This after the outspoken bench boss went on record on Monday that he didn't think Datsyuk was ready to return.
"I just watch him in practice, one leg isn't holding up." Babcock said after the team skate on Monday. "Pavel wants to play for his country and be part of things, but you have to be healthy."
Datsyuk played an inconsequential 13:34 against the Panthers, earning a minus-one rating - but there has been no update on his condition since.
Is Datsyuk healthy? Only he and his doctor know for sure. But one thing is certain, Datsyuk wants badly to play in the games being held in his home country, on the team that has been named captain. It remains to be seen if Datsyuk is doing the right thing.
"I needed a few games" Datsyuk panned when asked if he was returning to the lineup to prepare for the Olympic Games, "but it's more important to come back for the Red Wings." then qualified his statement with a simple, "Sooner or later, I needed to start."
The Red Wings are hoping that his sooner doesn't turn out to be later for them.
http://www.sportsinjuryalert.com/2014/02/red-wings-datsyuk-returns-amid.html#.UvUhRrQcq58
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