I think they like to bring up a player and get him right into the game and team flow. When they signed Kivi, I thought they said he was a good bet to make it opening night. Didn't happen, but with some AHL time under his belt, it looks like they view him now as a more NHL ready option?
BTW, tried to switch out some later tickets I can't use for this game, may as well watch them while on the hot streak. Stars call this a premium game (tried to trade Toronto/Austin Matthews game when I will be out of town). That is either based on old rivalry and reputation or the number of Michiganders who typically fill the stadium when the Wings come, not their current record.