Keith Ballard (illness) will not be available for Thursday's game against the Coyotes, Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Ballard (illness) will not be available for Thursday's game against the Coyotes, Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis:

Both Ballard and his usual defensive partner (Christian Folin) were feeling sick Thursday morning, prompting coach Mike Yeo to tab Matthew Dumba and Nate Prosser for third-pairing duties. A day out of the lineup should be all Ballard needs to clear up the illness before a likely return to action Saturday against the Bolts.