Panthers Activate Dmitry Kulikov Off The Injured Reserve; Listed As A Game-Time Decision

The Florida Panthers could be receiving some reinforcements on the back end, as Dmitry Kulikov has been activated from the long-term injury reserve and has been listed as a game-time decision by coach Paul Maurice. 

Kulikov has been out of the Panthers’ lineup since the second game of the season after suffering a torn labrum. The 35-year-old veteran defender has undergone surgery and rehab to be available to return. 

While he’s been listed as a game-time decision, Kulikov will likely make his long-awaited return to the Panthers lineup tonight against the New York Islanders. The Panthers are beginning a crucial four-game road trip that could very likely determine their playoff hopes. 

Kulikov’s possible return comes at an important time regarding the standings, but also following a lower-body injury Uvis Balinskis sustained. Maurice spoke about Balinskis, mentioning that he is day-to-day. The 29-year-old will be out of the lineup tonight against the Islanders.

Maurice also had an update on Seth Jones, saying that he is getting closer to a return. Jones skated in a regular practice jersey for the first time since suffering an upper-body injury on Jan. 2. 

“We’ll get some bumping on him today. We think he’s closing in on it,” said the Panthers bench boss. 

The final injury update concerned Cole Schwindt, who has been placed on injured reserve with a lower-body injury. A specific timetable hasn’t been revealed for Schwindt, but Maurice has indicated that Schwindt will be out for a while. 

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