The Detroit Red Wings are looking at defenseman Brad Stuart returning on Thursday when the team resumes play against Tampa Bay.
Stuart had his jaw broken on Jan. 7 by Calgary’s Tom Kostopoulos. Stuart had surgery to repair the damage a week later and the initial prognosis was he would miss 6-8 weeks. It’s been about six weeks, so Stuart is aiming at the earliest possible return.
Stuart will need medical clearance from doctors before he can return. His presence in the lineup will be a welcome sight on the defensive end, as Detroit has struggled recently in that department.