Jets’ Patrik Laine cleared for contact, will practice Sunday

Paul Maurice gives updates on the status of Patrik Laine and Drew Stafford.

Great news for the Winnipeg Jets, as rookie star Patrik Laine has been cleared for contact and will return to practice on Sunday.

The 18-year-old has been out since Jan. 7, after suffering a concussion on a big hit from Buffalo Sabres defenceman Jake McCabe.

After skating with the team on Friday, Laine told reporters “I’m feeling pretty good”, and on Saturday, he had all restrictions from the concussion removed.

Laine, who led the Jets in goals before being injured, is currently tied for the team lead at 21 with teammate Mark Scheifele.

The Finn, who also has 16 assists and 37 points in 42 games this season, is currently tied for second in scoring amongst rookies, trailing only the Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews in goals and points.

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