Detroit Red Wings goalie Petr Mrazek (34), of the Czech Republic, sprays water on his face after giving up a goal during the second period of an NHL hockey game Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015, in Tampa, Fla.Chris O'Meara/The Associated Press
Petr Mrazek will start in goal for the Detroit Red Wings in Game 1 of their playoff series against Tampa Bay.
Coach Mike Babcock announced his choice after practice Monday. The 23-year-old Mrazek went 16-9-2 during the regular season with a 2.38 goals-against average. He'll start instead of Jimmy Howard, who has been Detroit's No. 1 goalie since the 2009-10 season.
Howard went 23-13-11 with a 2.44 GAA this season. The goaltending situation became a bigger issue as the Red Wings faltered down the stretch. They managed to hold on for third place in the Atlantic Division, setting up a first-round matchup with the Lightning.
The series starts Thursday night at Tampa Bay.