Flyers' Raffl returns to lineup sooner than expected

Michael Raffl must have exceptional genes.

Originally expected to miss four-to-six weeks with a lower-body injury, the Philadelphia Flyers forward will play Wednesday against the Detroit Red Wings after having missed only eight games.

"It's a gift," Raffl told Dave Isaac of The News Journal in regards to his ability to make a quick recovery.

Raffl was hurt blocking a shot in a game against the Edmonton Oilers on Nov. 4. In 12 games prior to the injury, he scored six goals and added one assist with 29 shots.