Ruutu (hip) could find himself skating on the Hurricanes' second line as early as Monday against the Rangers, the Raleigh News & Observer reports. "We need to see where [Ruutu] is at," coach Kirk Muller said. "If he comes back and he's playing at the level he's capable of, initially [the second line] is where you have him penciled in."

Recommendation: Ruutu, who hasn't played a game for the 'Canes in almost a year, was at Thursday's morning skate and took part in a full practice Friday. He then travelled with his teammates for Saturday's game against Tampa Bay, and although he did not play, Muller didn't rule him out for Monday's game against the Rangers. A second line consisting of Jeff-Skinner, Jordan Staal and Ruutu looks awfully good on paper, so monitor his status closely and be ready to act once he finally gets the green light to return.

(Rotowire.com)