Gustavsson likely done with Wings, never 'got in a rhythm'

Jonas Gustavsson figures he can play another 10 years in the NHL. But his time with the Detroit Red Wings has probably come to an end.

Wings general manager Ken Holland has already said he expects Petr Mrazek and Jimmy Howard to compete for playing time next season.

Howard put up All-Star numbers in the first half of the season before struggling in the second half.

With Howard struggling and Gustavsson injured, that opened the door for Mrazek, who went on to win the starting job and start in the playoffs. Mrazek had two shutouts, a 2.11 goals-against average and a .925 save percentage in seven games against the Lightning.

Gustavsson, who has battled groin and hip injuries in the past, was limited to seven games this season due to a shoulder injury and a concussion. He had a 3-3-1 record with a .911 save percentage and a 2.56 GAA.

Mike Babcock will explore other opportunities

"My shoulder injury kept me out of long time," Gustavsson said. "I didn't know if I was going to come back or if I needed surgery. I did pretty much everything I could rehab-wise to try and come back. I managed to get back and play a few games, then I got the concussion. Obviously, I never got in a rhythm. Then at the end of the season, we had two other goalies. Mrazek came up and played great. It wasn't much room for me, and I understood that.

"Tried to work on my game in the shadows, tried to keep pushing myself. Tried to be a good teammate. Hopefully that's going to help me in the future."

Gustavsson said he enjoyed playing for the Wings over the past three seasons.

"In one way I'm happy with my health this year, although it sound funny," he said. "My groin has felt good from the start. I haven't felt anything whatsoever. Actually health-wise, I think I'm in better shape than ever. Obviously the shoulder injury and then the concussion kind of prevented me from showing that."

Gustavsson said he has no idea where he might end up next season.

"Hopefully I can stay in this league," Gustavsson. "I feel I have lots left in the tank. I'm only 30 years old. So, hopefully have another 10 years of good hockey in me."

Contact George Sipple: gsipple@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @georgesipple.