Dustin Byfuglien: (Upper Body) Will Play Thursday

Byfuglien (upper body) will return to the Jets' lineup Thursday against the Canadiens, Paul Friesen of the Winnipeg Sun reports.

Analysis:

After rejoining the Jets for their morning skate and fully participating in drills, Byfuglien finally received the green light to play for the first time since March 4. The team anticipated Byfuglien returning over a week ago, but it appears he didn't quite progress as quickly as the Jets were banking on. Now healthy, Byfuglien, who has amassed 15 goals and 27 assists over 65 games while splitting time at forward and defense, will slot back in as a blueliner Thursday and skate on a pair with Adam Pardy.