Martin Erat missed the final two games against Anaheim due to a UBI but Coach Trotz says that he should be in the lineup tonight against Vancouver.

Sami Salo (LBI) is listed as questionable for tonight's series opener against Nashville.

Johan Franzen (ankle) practiced yesterday and says he's ready to go for game #1 on Friday.  Just a reminder that Henrik Zetterberg (knee) is also expected to return on Friday.

Mike Knuble (hand) has been skating/practicing but Coach Bruce says he's not well enough to return yet, he did say that he should be able to return at some point during the Tampa series.

The speculation is that Jeff Carter (knee) will try to make his return at some point during the 2nd round.

With Buffalo eliminated, now we get some more details on injuries... Jason Pominville has a sliced tendon in his ankle that will require surgery and he's expected to be out for 4-6 months, so it could cost him training camp and some games at the start of next season.

Returning to action from the injured list last night:  James Wisniewski.