Ty Conklin

Veteran backup goalie Ty Conklin has cleared re-entry waivers and will start tonight for the Red Wings against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden.

Conklin was recalled from Grand Rapids of the American Hockey League on an emergency basis when both Wings goalies Jimmy Howard (groin) and Joey MacDonald (lower back) were injured six days apart.

Since being assigned to Grand Rapids a month ago, Conklin has posted an 8-4-0 record with a 2.40 goals-against average and .915 save percentage.

Rookie goaltender Jordan Pearce will serve as backup tonight.

Conklin, who turns 36-years-old next week, appeared in 11 games for the Wings this season with a 3-5-0 mark and 3.40 GAA.

Of the injuries, it’s believed that Howard’s is the least serious.  He originally strained the groin in the first period against Chicago on March 4. He sit out the last two periods against the Blackhawks as well as the next three games.

Howard, who had an MRI on Tuesday, which revealed no damage, said he hopes to be back for Saturday's game against Carolina at Joe Louis Arena.

Meanwhile, MacDonald began experiencing pain in his lower back and down the back of the left leg in last week’s 4-0 loss at Anaheim. He was scheduled to see Dr. Richard Easton, a Detroit area back specialist, on Tuesday.

In five career games against the Rangers, Conklin is 4-1-0 with a 2.60 GAA, .922 save% and one shutout.

CLICK HERE for a look at the Wings' line combinations and defensive pairings for tonight.

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