Chris Kunitz (foot) is considered close to a return, but will not play Thursday against the Avalanche, Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

Kunitz (foot) is considered close to a return, but will not play Thursday against the Avalanche, Josh Yohe of the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

Analysis:

Kunitz first resumed practicing with the team Wednesday, so it's understandable that the Penguins aren't willing to rush him back into a game a day later when he probably still needs to get his conditioning up to snuff. Assuming that his broken foot doesn't cause further problems while he skates the next couple of days, look for Kunitz to potentially suit up for Saturday's tilt with the Panthers.