Eric Staal said he has had no lingering problems in camp with the after-effects of offseason abdominal surgery, and will suit up for his first preseason game Tuesday against St. Louis, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.

Staal said he has had no lingering problems in camp with the after-effects of offseason abdominal surgery, and will suit up for his first preseason game Tuesday against St. Louis, the Raleigh News & Observer reports.

Analysis:

Staal has been practicing this week in his usual spot between Alexander Semin and Jiri Tlusty on the Canes' first line. Barring any unexpected setbacks, we fully expect Staal to open the season in full health. Draft with confidence.