Hjalmarsson set to return to Coyotes' lineup after 43-game absence

The Arizona Coyotes are about to receive a huge boost to their blue line.

Niklas Hjalmarsson is set to return to the Coyotes' lineup Sunday against the Pittsburgh Penguins after missing the last 43 games, according to The Athletic's Craig Morgan.

Hjalmarsson has been absent for most of the season after suffering a cracked left fibula in a game on Oct. 12. He managed one goal in four contests before sustaining the injury.

The 32-year-old is in the first season of a two-year, $10-million contract extension he signed with the Coyotes in 2018. Arizona has been battling it out atop the Pacific Division during his absence and has the chance to reclaim first place Sunday.