Senators' Mark Stone: Making strides

According to coach Guy Boucher, Stone (lower body) has taken a "major step" toward returning to action, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports.

Analysis:

Stone is skating prior to practice and seems to be trending in the right direction. Prior to getting hurt, the winger was stuck in a rut with a seven-game goal drought, although he was able to garner three helpers and 14 shots during that stretch. Once he's cleared to return, the 24-year-old will likely resume his role on the power play, where he is averaging 3:05 of ice time and has tallied 14 points.