DETROIT - Detroit Red Wings goaltender Petr Mrazek joined his teammates for practice Thursday at Joe Louis Arena, after a short but positive experience at the World Cup.

"It was a great experience, I would say, for every player that could be on the team," Mrazek said. "I think we enjoyed it, had lots of fun."

Mrazek went 1-0-1 for the Czech Republic, with a 2.98 goals-against average and .925 save percentage. He lost 3-2 to Europe in overtime and beat Team USA 4-3. The Czechs went 1-1-1 and didn't qualify for the semifinals.

"It was my first tournament for Czech (national team), so I think it was really high-level tournament, the best players in the world so I could say it was the best tournament," Mrazek said. "A little disappointing we didn't make the semifinal, but it was a good tournament."

Coach Jeff Blashill indicated on Wednesday that Mrazek might make his preseason debut Sunday at home vs. Chicago.

"We played six games (including pre-tournament games), so it's helpful for everyone who was on the team," Mrazek said. "We practiced every day and after tournament it's good to have a couple days off and refresh and get ready for the season here."

Nosek feeling better

Center Tomas Nosek skated by himself today, the first time he's been on the ice since hurting his right knee in Sunday's Red-White game on a hit from Steve Ott.

"I feel pretty good," Nosek said. "The knee is getting stronger, so I think it's going to be OK."

He said he just "twisted" the knee a little bit.

"They just wanted to make sure it's not a big deal, so I didn't go back into the game," Nosek said.

He hopes to play at least one preseason game before being sent down to the Grand Rapids Griffins (he is exempt from waivers).

"It's not a good time to be injured," Nosek said. "I think it's going to be good and I'll get a chance to play."

Ott felt bad about the hit.

"Right after the (game), he came to me and apologized," Nosek said. "I think it's not his fault."