Seattle Kraken forward Yanni Gourde returned to practice this morning in a red, non-contact jersey.
The 33-year-old centre has been out of the lineup since Jan. 2 and underwent sports hernia surgery on Jan. 31 . Gourde was given a 5-7 week timetable for the recovery process, and skating this morning is his first bit of positive news.
The past two seasons have been difficult ones for Gourde as he's seen his offensive numbers continue to dip. His first two campaigns with the Kraken saw him record 48 points, but since then, he has registered 33 points in 80 games and this season, just six goals and 16 points in 35 games.
Gourde is still an effective player, providing his value on the defensive side of the puck, maintaining his aggressive and physical nature on the forecheck and continuing his excellent play on the penalty kill.
Although Gourde's play has declined a bit, his value in the trade market is still high. Before going down with the injury, some insiders believed that Gourde could fetch a first-round pick on the trade market.
GM Ron Francis has stood his ground on his stance of re-signing the Saint-Narcisse, QC native rather than trading him to a contender. The plan has been to extend Gourde, but if a contract was not agreed to by the deadline, he would be moved. The injury concerns may have changed some franchises' opinions on Gourde, and what the Kraken elect to do is unknown.
HC Dan Bylsma told the media following practice that "he morning skated today, but still has a progression of individual skates for the next three to four days."
With the trade deadline just 10 days away, it's unknown and unlikely that Gourde sees game action beforehand.
Stay updated with the most interesting Kraken stories, analysis, breaking news and more! Tap the star to add us to your favourites on Google News to never miss a story.