Red Wings defenseman Brian Rafalski hit the ice earlier this week for the first time since he had arthroscopic knee surgery back on Oct. 12. Rafalski got on the ice prior to the Wings' practice and made the trip to Western Canada with the team.
Red Wings coach Mike Babcock said that he hopes Rafalski will be able to return from his injury on Monday when Detroit hosts the Phoenix Coyotes. The Wings have played well despite being without one of their top defensemen, but you can bet they will be glad to get Rafalski back. They actually just got Jonathan Ericsson back on Wednesday, so barring any injuries this weekend, the Wings could be back to full strength defensively on Monday.
For what it's worth, Rafalski joined Ken Daniels and Mickey Redmond for commentary during part of Wednesday's game against the Flames and reiterated Babcock's comments, saying he hopes to return on Monday. Barring a setback, that is the plan.