-- Nicklas Lidstrom said that the report in the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet that he's close to signing a two-year contract extension is false. Lidstrom said after Thursday's practice that "Nothing's happened. I haven't even talked to Ken (Holland) yet." There isn't cause for concern. Lidstrom wants to sign with the Wings. There just isn't a deal coming this week.
-- Dallas Drake (fractured cheekbone) experimented with his second face guard today and still wasn't satisfied. After trying a full visor on Wednesday, Drake used a half visor that had a half-cage attached underneath to offer full face protection. The half visor was further away from his face than the full shield as well. Breathing was easier with this equipment. The cage on the bottom, however, made it difficult for Drake to find the puck at his feet. "Can't see anything down there," said Drake.
-- Johan Franzen (MCL) is progressing. Although Thursday's practice didn't have contact, he said that he's ready for contact drills ... something he wasn't ready for earlier this week.
-- Igor Grigorenko practiced as a spare forward again.