Zack Kassian (illness) won't play Thursday against the Wild, but is expected to return to action Saturday against Colorado.

Kassian (illness) won't play Thursday against the Wild, but is expected to return to action Saturday against Colorado.

Analysis:

Kassian missed practice Wednesday due to an illness, and will be held out of Thursday's contest in an attempt to "get his energy level back up" ahead of Saturday's game against Colorado. The 25-year-old winger should be ready to return to action against the Avalanche, at which point he will likely slot back into the lineup as a bottom-six forward. Expect an update on Kassian's status ahead of puck drop Saturday evening.