Shawn Thornton (groin) is expected to play Thursday against the Blue Jackets, Jameson Olive of FOX Sports Florida reports.

Thornton (groin) is expected to play Thursday against the Blue Jackets, Jameson Olive of FOX Sports Florida reports.

Analysis:

Thornton remains on the Panthers' injured reserve list, but he should be formally activated following Thursday's morning skate. The bruising fourth-liner last played Dec. 6, but had been healthy shortly before the All-Star break. At that time, the Panthers didn't have a roster spot open to accommodate Thornton, but that's no longer an issue now that Vincent Trocheck has been returned to AHL San Antonio.