Hicketts to gain valuable experience in late-season game vs. Penguins

KAMLOOPS — Detroit Red Wings head coach Jeff Blashill says Kamloops native Joe Hicketts will get a lot of opportunity to show himself in his second NHL game against Sidney Crosby and the Penguins. 

“Hicks will get lots of opportunity. We don’t want to throw him to the wolves but we also want to see,” said Blashill. “The purpose of this is to get some more games to see what he’s all about. Joe will get power play time tonight.”

Hicketts is paired with veteran Red Wings defenseman Niklas Kronwall. 

The 21 year old was recalled by Detroit on Monday night following a 4-2 loss in Montreal. The Red Wings have been looking for defensive depth since Mike Green was ruled out for the season and in need of neck surgery.