The Vancouver Canucks could be getting some much-needed help on the blue line.
Defenceman Filip Hronek has rejoined the team in Winnipeg, the team announced.
Head coach Rick Tocchet later told reporters that the defenceman is a game-time decision for Tuesday night's game against the Jets.
Hronek has been sidelined since suffering an injury on Nov. 27 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The Canucks announced that the 27-year-old underwent a lower-body procedure on Dec. 3, for which the recovery time was estimated to be eight weeks.
The No. 2 defenceman was assigned to a conditioning assignment with the AHL's Abbotsford Canucks last week.
With Hronek closing in on a return, the team placed defenceman Erik Brannstrom on waivers. Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reports that the defenceman cleared waivers Monday and will be reassigned to the AHL.
Playing in his second full season with the Canucks, Hronek has one goal and eight assists in 21 games and served as the primary defence partner for captain Quinn Hughes. He notched career highs in assists (43) and points (48) last season.
Hronek was acquired by the Canucks in March 2023 from the Detroit Red Wings, who selected him 53rd overall in 2016.
He signed an eight-year, $58 million contract to remain with the Canucks last off-season.
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