Stars' Sharp to return Saturday after 12-game absence

The Dallas Stars will welcome Patrick Sharp back to the lineup Saturday when they take on the Florida Panthers, head coach Lindy Ruff announced Friday.

Sharp is coming off a 12-game absence and has missed 26 total contests this season because of concussion-like symptoms.

"Anytime you can put Sharp, a healthy Sharp, back in the lineup your lineup is going to get better," Ruff said.

Sharp joins the Stars at a good time, as they've moved into a wild-card position in the West, and own a 6-3-1 record over their past 10 games.

In just 11 games this season, Sharp has one goal and one assist.