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Zetterberg hopeful Alfredsson can return; Red Wings reportedly willing to wait

Timothy T Ludwig / Reuters

Detroit Red Wings captain Henrik Zetterberg is keeping tabs on countryman Daniel Alfredsson and his attempt to return to the team this season, and believes the next seven days will go a long way towards determining the Swedish forward's status.

“(Alfredsson) says he feels better and I think this week will be an important week, and hopefully he will be with us next week,” Zetterberg told the team's official website. “I think it was a wise decision for him to really take the time now and do his rehab and really give it a last shot. Hopefully it will work.”

Zetterberg experienced serious back issues last season and can certainly relate with Alfredsson's struggle.

“The symptoms are similar,” Zetterberg said. “It’s a different part of his back that he’s having issues with, so I hope that the last few weeks have been good for him and he’s doing the good things and hopefully he’s ready to go soon.”

Meanwhile, Elliotte Friedman of Hockey Night in Canada reports general manager Ken Holland and his staff are more than willing to wait on Alfredsson, allowing him the time needed to make the best decision:

(A) scout also relayed that word is Detroit feels it owes Daniel Alfredsson some real patience. First, he chose them last year during a difficult process, led them in scoring and was a great leader in (a) season they needed veterans to step up. Second, he could have come to them in June for a new contract, but was honest about his injury and gave them cap flexibility. They are willing to let this play out.

The Red Wings will open their new season against the Boston Bruins on Oct. 9. Alfredsson is skating, and the door appears wide open for his return, health permitting.

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