ST. PAUL, Minn. -- The Detroit Red Wings talked last week about needing other players to step up and help fill the void created by

injury.

Now, it’s even more imperative for some players to contribute more offensively, after the team lost leading goal-scorer

Sunday with a fractured left ankle.

Cleary will be out at least four weeks after getting hit with a shot by teammate

during the third period of Detroit’s 4-1 victory over the Minnesota Wild at Xcel Energy Center.

“We just have to find a way through it,’’ defenseman

said. “Other guys are going to have to step up and play some more minutes. Hopefully that can benefit them and some of the younger guys maybe taking on a little bigger role.’’

The Red Wings recalled forward Jan Mursak from the Grand Rapids Griffins. He’ll make his NHL debut Monday night in Colorado. Mursak is the Griffins’ fourth-leading scorer with 23 points (10 goals, 13 assists) in 33 games.

Cleary had scored his team-leading 16th goal in the first period. That’s one more than he scored all of last season and four short of his career high set in 2006-07 and matched the following season.

Cleary is one of the club's most versatile players. He fits in well on a top line or a checking line. He can play the net front on the power play and kill penalties.

“I think he sometimes doesn’t get the credit he deserves,’’ Kronwall said. “He’s doing a really good job for us. He’s been one of our most important guys so far, with his work ethic and just his presence out there and in the locker room. He’s one of our leaders. Obviously, it’s tough to lose him.’’

The Red Wings also are missing their leading scorer, Datsyuk (39 points), who’s out four weeks with a broken hand, as well as center Mike Modano, who's expected to be out until March because of a lacerated wrist.

Babcock ponders Monday's goalie

Red Wings coach

hadn't decided immediately after the game whether

or

would start Monday in Colorado.

Howard isn't likely to be fatigued, after facing only 17 shots against the Wild.

"You still have to concentrate and move and all that, so we'll see whether I'm going to go with him or Ozzie tomorrow,'' Babcock said. "I haven't decided yet.''

Osgood still is seeking his 400th win.