Kovalchuk returns to Devils lineup vs Panthers

NEWARK, N.J. (AP) ? Offensive catalyst Ilya Kovalchuk is returning to the New Jersey Devils' lineup for Saturday's game against the Florida Panthers.

Kovalchuk discussed his return before the opening faceoff of a game that could knock the Devils out of the playoff race.

If the Devils lose in regulation, they will be eliminated from the postseason just a year after playing in the Stanley Cup Finals.

Kovalchuk injured his right shoulder during a game against the Panthers on Mar. 23 and missed the last 11 games. The Devils' playoffs hopes took a major hit while he was out. They went 1-6-4, with the only win coming on Thursday night against Philadelphia.

Scoring was a factor in the slump. The team had 19 goals in 11 games.

Associated Press

Source: http://hosted2.ap.org/APDEFAULT/347875155d53465d95cec892aeb06419/Article_2013-04-20-HKN-Devils-Kovalchuk/id-60745d602a934f1299d3da8eeab16a75

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