The most recent NHL season for the Detroit Red Wings undoubtedly fell short of expectations and, part of that disappointment, can likely be attributed to the injuries that plagued Todd McLellan’s squad. That’s why, heading into the upcoming campaign, the HC will be hoping to have a healthy and fully available roster at his disposal.
A season-ending upper-body injury kept Carter Mazur from showcasing his full potential on the ice for his team. However, the talented forward has made it clear that, starting from Game 1, he’s ready to prove why the team put their trust in him.
In a recent conversation with the media, the forward shared his excitement about getting back on the ice with his teammates, stating that his game remains intact despite the significant setback he endured months ago.
“I was called up for a reason,” he said via DetroitRedWings.com. “My game is still there. It’s not a career-ending injury, but the thought of that happening with all my family and friends there is still brutal. However, I have a great support system behind me. Every single one of them supports me no matter what. It was a tough thing to go through, but I have the right people behind me to get me in the right spot.”
Carter Mazur #43 of the Detroit Red Wings skates with the puck against the Chicago Blackhawks during the second period of a preseason game at the United Center on September 25, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois.
“Already having a year in the American Hockey League under my belt, I felt more comfortable last year,” Mazur also added. “That helped me a lot. I trust my ability, and I always go back to that. I feel like I have some skill and snarl to my game…And out of the 20 games I did play, I felt like my game added a lot to the group.”‘
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The key to Detroit’s preseason
Avoiding injuries will be a key factor if the Detroit Red Wings hope to have their full roster available and at peak performance throughout the season. Preseason preparation could play a major role in that effort—something Carter Mazur fully agrees with.
“Gaining strength was always a big part of probably why I’ve gotten hurt a lot,” he said. “I’m on the smaller side, but [Griffins Strength and Conditioning Coordinator] Marcus [Kinney] and [Griffins Physical Therapist] Zack Harvey put me in a good spot heading into the summer. Just keeping that muscle on, figuring out more about my body and what I really need is huge.”
Additionally, the forward emphasized that it’s not just about improving physical preparation to avoid injuries—he also pointed out the importance of staying sharp technically, as his skill level needs to meet the demands of the upcoming NHL season.
“After being [with the Red Wings], it makes it even clearer how much I need to be better,” Mazur also added. “I need to push myself and I want to help them get back to the playoffs. I know I can get to that level. I have the ability, so it’s just about staying healthy. I’ve been through a lot of injuries, and I feel like I’ve come back better and stronger from every single one. I can’t really look at this one any differently.”
SurveyCan the Red Wings be contenders next season?
Can the Red Wings be contenders next season?