Howard will not receive the start in goal for Game 1 of the Red Wings' first-round playoff series against the Lightning. After a tremendous start to the season, Howard lost a ton of momentum after the All-Star break, finishing with a 7-6-4 record, 2.99 GAA, and .896 save percentage in the second half. Despite those struggles, Howard still had a chance to solidify the Red Wings' No. 1 goalie job heading into the playoffs, but was unable to take advantage, surrendering four goals on 26 shots in his final outing of the regular season in Thursday's loss to the Canadiens. For now, coach Mike Babcock will turn the net over to Petr Mrazek to open the first-round series, but the Czech netminder's own inconsistencies could yet create an opportunity for Howard to reclaim the gig. Even so, Howard's current standing as the Wings' understudy in goal won't make him an attractive choice for those in playoff pools.