Jets Forward Skating In A Non-Contact Jersey

Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers was skating in a non-contact jersey during today's practice.

Winnipeg Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers was skating in a non-contact jersey during today's practice. 

The 28-year-old suffered a lower-body injury the last time the Jets played the Vegas Golden Knights on Nov. 29. In the last night's rematch; the team was missing his presence once again as they struggled to create offence, mustering just 20 shots on goal in a 3-2 overtime loss. 

Ehlers has missed seven games due to this injury, but despite that, he's still on pace to set a career-high in points. His ice time has gone down, but he has been more efficient with it, especially with his increased power play role. In 24 games, the former ninth-overall pick of the 2014 NHL draft has scored nine goals and 25 points, averaging 15:32 of TOI. 

His return to practice without contact likely means he won't be available for tomorrow's home game against the Montreal Canadiens, but it is a step in the right direction for his eventual return. 

The next step for the speedy Danish winger is to practice at least once with full contact. He'd be evaluated again following a practice with contact, allowing the training and coaching staff to determine the best time for him to make his return to game action. 

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