Ducks' Despres expected to play vs. Bruins after 42-game absence

The Anaheim Ducks are expected to welcome defenseman Simon Despres back to the lineup Tuesday following a lengthy absence due to a concussion suffered in October.

Despres was activated off injured reserve in advance of a road game against the Boston Bruins, and has specific instruction from head coach Bruce Boudreau to keep things simple in his return.

"He's a big, strong-bodied guy who can play lots of minutes," said Boudreau. "What I'm expecting from him today is just a simple game ... get his feet (under him) and do the right things."

The 24-year-old has been sidelined since taking a high hit from Colorado Avalanche defenseman Tyson Barrie on Oct. 16, an incident that earned the latter a three-game suspension.

Despres, who signed a five-year contract extension with the Ducks prior to the injury, has recorded six goals and 33 assists in 164 career games.