DETROIT - The Detroit Red Wings expect forward Johan Franzen to miss at least three pre-season games with a thigh injury.
Franzen was hurt in a collision with Pittsburgh's Brooks Orpik in the first period of a pre-season game Wednesday night. The Penguins defenceman was given a major penalty for kneeing Franzen, who was knocked out of the game.
Red Wings coach Mike Babcock said he's hoping the NHL fines Orpik for the hit.
Franzen will be re-evaluated on Thursday for what the team described as a charley horse. He tore a ligament in his left knee nearly a year ago and played in just 10 regular season games. He had 18 points in 12 post-season games.