Jeff Carter will return Thursday

Carter (upper body) will return to the lineup Thursday against the Maple Leafs.

Analysis:

Carter has been sidelined since Dec. 26 with the upper-body issue, but finally rejoined line rushes during Wednesday's practice and will now take his spot back in the lineup. If the practice lines hold as expected, the veteran should center the Kings' second line alongside Tanner Pearson and Marian Gaborik.