from Nicholas J. Cotsonika,

Jimmy Howard wants to stay with the Detroit Red Wings rather than go to a contender at the 2019 NHL Trade Deadline.

The goalie is in the last year of a six-year contract and can become an unrestricted free agent July 1. Howard could be moved prior to the Feb. 25 deadline, but said he would like to sign an extension with Detroit. The 34-year-old has spent his entire 13-year NHL career in Detroit, and he and his wife, Rachel, have three children.

"Obviously I want to stay here," said Howard, whose 232 wins rank third in Red Wings history. "This city has become home, not only for myself but for my family as well. I definitely don't want to relocate at all. So it would mean the world to me to be able to end my career here in Detroit."...

General manager Ken Holland said he would speak to Howard and his representatives within the next month to discuss his future.

"I want to see what they're thinking [in terms of a contract]," Holland said.

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