Detroit Red Wings vs. Dallas Stars - Nov. 8, 2015

(Mike Mulholland | MLive.com)

Barring the unexpected, Jimmy Howard will be in goal for the Grand Rapids Griffins on Saturday, his first game since he injured his knee with the Red Wings on Dec. 20.

Griffins coach Todd Nelson said after practice Thursday that "the game plan is he will start here Saturday, but things could change."

The Griffins left Thursday afternoon for a game in Chicago on Friday. They return to Van Andel Arena and host Milwaukee on Saturday.

Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill said likewise regarding Howard, with the final decision to come after practice Friday.

"We're eyeing GR for Saturday night for him, but we'll know for sure tomorrow," he said.

It is undetermined whether Howard will play one or two games with the AHL team. The Griffins have another home game Wednesday, against Manitoba.

"I think he's done very good, as well as you can without real action," Blashill said of Howard. "Being in practices has helped, he's had lots of shots last couple practices. Even though he's sharing the net, at least he's getting some real action."

Howard returned to practice with the Red Wings on Monday for the first time since he sprained his MCL when his right leg was trapped beneath several bodies in the goalmouth against Tampa Bay.

Howard, who also missed some time with a groin injury earlier this season, has been sharp with a 1.96 goals-against average and .934 save percentage.

Blashill noted goalie coach Jeff Salajko's work to help expedite Howard's return.

"He's worked hard off the ice," Blashill said. "Now he's got to get in there and get some game time."

- Ansar Khan contributed to this report.