Smith has sustained a mid-body injury, but coach Jeff Blashill expects him to be ready for the season opener against the Lightning on Thursday, Helene St. James of the Detroit Free Press reports.

EDGE Analysis

The Red Wings seem to have dodged a bullet regarding Smith's injury. Certainly, the savvy rearguard is needed in the lineup with Niklas Kronwall (knee) placed on IR, and rookies Ryan Sproul and Xavier Ouellet needing time to adjust to the fast-paced nature of the NHL.