Jimmy Howard suffers apparent groin injury

Detroit Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard exited his start Friday night versus the New Jersey Devils after suffering an apparent groin injury, Helene St. James of Detroit Free Press reports.

The veteran made two saves on three shots before heading off the ice with no clear indication of how the injury occurred.

Head coach Jeff Blashill said afterward that Howard would miss at least a week.

Howard has primarily been serving as a backup behind Petr Mrazek since injuring his groin almost two years ago in his first start after being named to the All-Star team.

He was unable to rediscover his form until this season, where he's earned split duties for his performance that's exceeded the much younger Mrazek.

Howard owned a .943 save percentage in 11 games heading into Friday's contest - third-best in the NHL among goalies with at least 10 appearances.