Hurricanes' Justin Faulk: Ready to roll for opener

Faulk (lower body) will be in the lineup for Thursday's regular season opener against the Jets, Chip Alexander of the Raleigh News & Observer reports.

Analysis:

Faulk returned to practice Tuesday, a good indication that this would be the outcome for him on Opening Night. The blueliner provided a fair amount of offense last season for the Hurricanes (37 points in 64 games), but he also posted a minus-22 rating. Given the team's outlook this season -- that is, mediocrity at best -- it wouldn't be surprising if Faulk winds up with a similar season in 2016, with the potential for higher counting stats if he can remain healthy.