Mike Modano’s lacerated wrist has healed well enough that he was participating with some contact in practice, a positive sign that the forward could be close to returning.
Modano has been out since Columbus’ R.J. Umberger cut Modano with an errant skate blade in late November. Initial estimates had him out until March, but Modano appears to be on track for a much earlier return. He’s currently shooting for Feb. 24 against Dallas—his former club—but might have to wait until the Wings begin a road trip in Buffalo on the 26th.
Meanwhile, other banged up Red Wings aren’t as certain on their returns. Chris Osgood (hernia surgery in January) plans to get on the ice with the team’s goaltending coach before returning to practice. Valtteri Filppula (sprained MCL) said his knee feels better but couldn’t say when he’d be back.