The way Jared Coreau closed out his second career NHL appearance likely means he’s looking at third one when the Detroit Red Wings emerge from Christmas vacation.

The Wings host the Buffalo Sabres Tuesday, the rare home appearance amid a stretch of playing 10 of 11 games on the road. They entered the three-day Yuletide break buoyed by a 4-3 shootout victory Friday at Florida, which saw Coreau shine late in the game. He stopped all 13 shots the Panthers fired his way in the third period, plus three more in overtime.

“I thought he played well,” coach Jeff Blashill said afterwards. “He made big saves in the third period to allow us the 'W.' He found a way to win.”

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It speaks to the struggles supposed no. 1 goaltender Petr Mrazek has had that Coreau got the Florida start. Mrazek had lost the starting job to Jimmy Howard before Howard suffered a sprained knee Dec.20 that will sideline him at least through January. Mrazek has given up at least three goals his last six games, leading to a .899 save percentage and 3.06 goals-against average after 20 games. In 17 games, Howard played so well he has a .934 save percentage and 1.96 goals-against average.

Coreau’s assets include a 6-foot-6 frame. As Thomas Vanek said after the Florida game, “he’s a big goalie, he wants to play at this level. Biggest thing, he battled hard.”

After seeing a two-goal lead disappear in his first NHL start, Coreau’s emphasis going into Friday was on performing better in the third period, be it protecting a lead, or, as was the case in Florida, holding the opponent at bay to enable teammates to rally.

“That’s exactly what that it is, to close out a game,” he said. Whether it’s one goal down or up one goal or tie game, you know that each team is going to press a lot and get their chances. So you have to be on your toes and make all the saves that you can make.”

1997 team honored: Members of the 1997 Stanley Cup champion Wings will be reunited for a pregame ceremony Tuesday night. Fans are encouraged to arrive early for the 7:30 p.m. ceremony. Some fans will be selected for autographed jerseys from members of the 1997 team. The Conn Smythe Trophy, awarded to Mike Vernon, and the Campbell Bowl will be on display outside Section 112.

Contact Helene St. James: hstjames@freepress.com. Follow her on Twitter @helenestjames.