Red Wings Compher Should Be Ready for Lightning

J.T. Compher practiced with the Detroit Red Wings today and should be ready to play Saturday against the Tampa Bay Lightning (1 p.m., ABC).

Compher hasn’t played since Jan. 25 when he was injured on a hit by defenseman Emil Lilleberg. The Norwegian defenseman was suspended for two games for the hit, which earned him a penalty for interference. The added penalty came because it was a blow to the head, and it was late.

“In my mind (Compher is) cleared, he’s out there skating around,” Detroit coach Todd McLellan said. “I don’t know if the medical staff has signed off. If he doesn’t play on Saturday, I was wrong.”

Compher shows one goal and two points in his past 12 games, but coaches do appreciate his all-around game.

Red Wings Compher Says He’s Good To Go

After Thursday’s practice, Compher told the media he felt good and was ready to return to the lineup. Also at Thursday’s practice, Patrick Kane was playing on a line with Michael Rasmussen and Elmer Soderblom.

Saturday’s game is important for both the Red Wings and Lightning. They own the two wildcard positions in the Eastern Conference. The Red Wings have a one-point lead, but the Lightning have two games in hand.

The Red Wings, 15-4-1 under new coach Todd McLellan, have won seven games in a row to force their way back into the playoff race. They have missed the playoffs for eight consecutive seasons.