Carter returns to Kings' lineup after 55-game absence

The Los Angeles Kings will welcome back their leading scorer from last season Saturday night, as Jeff Carter returns from a 55-game absence, the team announced.

Carter has been out since Oct. 18 when his ankle was cut by a skate in a game against the Montreal Canadiens.

The addition should come as a huge boost for the Kings. Last season, the 33-year-old led the team with 32 goals and 66 points in 82 games and was awarded the Bill Libby Memorial Award as the Kings' Most Valuable Player.

Prior to the injury, Carter had put up three assists in six contests.