Ryan Ellis (lower body) took part in Wednesday's practice, skating with Seth Jones as the Preds' third pairing, Kristopher Martel of FOX Sports reports.

Ellis (lower body) took part in Wednesday's practice, skating with Seth Jones as the Preds' third pairing, Kristopher Martel of FOX Sports reports.

Analysis:

Ellis' participation alongside Jones would seemingly indicate that he's closing in on a return, though he seemed to back off on playing in the Preds' next game Thursday against the Wild, noting that the injury is "still nagging him." In any event, he at least seems to be progressing in the right direction, and should represent a welcome addition to the blue line corps once he's fully healthy.