Devils' Elias set to make season debut
Ed Mulholland / USA Today
The surprising New Jersey Devils are set to welcome their longest-serving member back to the lineup.
Veteran forward Patrik Elias will make his season debut Wednesday against the Columbus Blue Jackets after missing the first 20 games with a knee injury.
He made the announcement following the morning skate.
Elias, who will be appearing in his 20th season with the Devils, recorded 13 goals and 21 assists in 69 games last season.
New Jersey, projected to be a lottery team heading into the new season, has posted a record of 11-8-1 in Elias' absence, occupying a playoff spot at the quarter mark.