LEBDA AND HOWARD SWITCH BACK

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - The Detroit Red Wings recalled defenseman Brett Lebda on Tuesday from the Grand Rapids Griffins and assigned goaltender Jimmy Howard to the American Hockey League affiliate.

Lebda, 23, has played in four games for Detroit this year, posting two goals, three points, and a plus-three rating. The second-year pro garnered the game-winning goal on a second period power play in a 4-1 win over the Chicago Blackhawks on Nov. 1.

In eleven games with the Griffins this season, Lebda ranks second on the team in defense scoring with two goals, seven points, and a plus-five rating.

Howard sandwiched a three-game stint backing up Chris Osgood in Detroit around a start for Grand Rapids, stopping 20 of 22 shots in Friday nights 5-2 win over Syracuse.

The University of Maine product previously served as a backup to Manny Legace during each of the Red Wings first nine games this season before being sent to Grand Rapids on Oct. 24. He made his pro debut with the Griffins on Oct. 28, earning second star honors with 39 saves and contributing an assist in a 6-2 win over Iowa. The 21-year-old netminder has yet to make his first NHL start.

In three games with Grand Rapids this season, Howard sports a 2-0-1 record with a 2.93 GAA and a 0.906 save percentage.