Things are looking up for the Ottawa Senators.
In the past seven days, the team has welcomed the returns of forward Milan Michalek, defenceman Jared Cowen. The Sens have also assembled a four-game winning streak and snuffed out the Washington Capitals eight-game winning streak Thursday night.
Friday brought more good news to the Canadian capital, as 2012 Norris Trophy winner Erik Karlsson was cleared for contact and participated in his first full practice with the team since having his Achilles sliced by the skate of Pittsburgh Penguins forward Matt Cooke on Feb. 13.
Karlsson, who underwent surgery after his injury and was believed to be out for the duration of the season, skated as the extra defenceman after posing alongside his teammates for the team photo Friday.
Coach Paul MacLean told reporters there is no timetable set for Karlsson’s return. When Karlsson says he’s ready to play, MacLean explained, the team will consider playing him.
Senators GM Bryan Murray told Sportsnet earlier this week that Karlsson might be available for the playoffs.
“It’s nice to be back on the ice. It’s been awhile. It was a good thing to do,” Karlsson told reporters.
Karlsson said he feels “no pain” and that it felt good to skate with others rather on his own.
The defenceman, who led all NHL blue-liners with 10 points in 14 games played prior to the injury, told Garrioch he won’t jeopardize next season by coming back too early.
The Senators’ next game is Saturday against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
On Monday, the Sens host the Penguins in what will be the teams’ first meeting since Karlsson’s injury.
