Bergeron is real close
Mike Loftus: Boston Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy said that forward Patrice Bergeron is the closest to returning but it probably won’t happen today.
Defenseman Kevan Miller has been cleared for contact but won’t return until next week.
Defenseman Zdeno Chara hasn’t been cleared for contact. He wore a ‘contact’ jersey at practice yesterday as they didn’t have a ‘no-contact’ jersey that was big enough for him.
Boston Bruins: Chara on his return to practice: “Definitely want to play. That’s what we are here for. Want to make sure it’s in a good position and strong enough to be battling again.”
Kruger to the IR
Mark Lazerus: The Chicago Blackhawks put forward Marcus Kruger on the IR with a concussion and recalled Luke Johnson.
Zadorov leaves with a lower-body injury
Mike Chambers: Colorado Avalanche defenseman Nikita Zadorov left last night’s game with a lower-body injury.
Panarin to return
Brian Hedger: Columbus Blue Jackets forward Artemi Panarin will return to the lineup tonight according to John Tortorella.
Klingberg to return
Matthews DeFranks: Dallas Stars coach Jim Montgomery said that defenseman John Klingberg will return tonight.
Howard could be available today
Adam Kimelman: Detroit Red Wings coach Jeff Blashill said that goaltender Jimmy Howard‘s back issue appeared during warmups. He didn’t practice yesterday but could be available today.
Martinez not close to returning
Dennis Bernstein: Los Angeles Kings defenseman Alec Martinez remains on the IR and is not close to returning.
No timeline for Subban and Arvidsson
Brooks Bratten: There is no timelines for defenseman P.K. Subban or Viktor Arvidsson. Predators coach Peter Laviolette said it’s obviously a positive that they are both back on the ice.
Brooks Bratten: Arvidsson is still a couple weeks away from returning.
Simon skates
Tom Gulitti: Pittsburgh Penguins forward Dominik Simon (lower-body) skated yesterday.
Juolevi is done for the year
Vancouver Canucks: Defenseman Olli Juolevi had knee surgery and is expected to be ready for training camp next year. Recovery is expected to be six months.
Pacioretty not practicing
Danny Webster: Vegas Golden Knights forward Max Pacioretty didn’t practice yesterday and they recalled forward Brandon Pirri.
Orpik remains out
JJ Regan: Washington Capitals defenseman Brooks Orpik won’t return until after Christmas.
