Ryan Ellis (lower-body) is expected to rejoin the lineup Thursday against Minnesota, the Tennessean reports.

Ellis (lower-body) is expected to rejoin the lineup Thursday against Minnesota, The Tennessean reports.

Analysis:

Although no formal announcement was made following the morning skate, fellow blueliner Victor Bartley was on the ice for an extended period, an indication that he may not play against the Wild. If that's indeed the case, Ellis will likely get the nod in Bartley's absence. Ellis hasn't played since Jan. 8, missing the team's last 21 games. Technically, he remains on injured reserve, but has been skating with the team for several days and has declared himself ready to go. Either way, be ready to reinsert Ellis into your lineup once he gets the official green light.