Senators' Tkachuk aiming to return vs. Blues

Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk said he's trending toward returning to the lineup Friday against the St. Louis Blues.

He revealed the news on the "Wingmen" podcast, which he launched with his brother, Matthew, earlier this season.

"Couple more bag skates, got to get through those," the Senators star said. "We have to check some boxes, but everything looks good for Friday. The boys have been playing great. I'm just very excited."

Tkachuk's been out of action since Oct. 13 due to a ligament injury in his thumb.

The Senators are 10-5-4 since Tkachuk was sidelined and sit third in the Atlantic Division. Ottawa plays the Vegas Golden Knights on Wednesday in what appears to be its final test without its captain.

Tkachuk managed three assists in three games before the injury.