It's youth vs. experience, skill vs. grit in the Red Wings' battle for the sixth spot on defense.

It appeared to be no contest earlier this season, when young Jakub Kindl was playing every game and impressing coaches with his steady performance. But he hasn't been as sharp over the past month, creating an opportunity for veteran Mike Commodore.

"Someone should grab the job," coach Mike Babcock said. "(That) is what I would do if I were one of them."

Commodore, who has played more than Kindl since Christmas, might have the inside track. Commodore was in and Kindl out for the Wings' 3-1 win in Calgary on Tuesday, their first game after the All-Star break. He has appeared in 12 of the past 18 games, missing a couple during that stretch due to a sore foot. And he might be in the lineup again Thursday in Vancouver.

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