VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Vancouver defenseman Ed Jovanovski returned to the Canucks' lineup against the Calgary Flames on Saturday night after missing 2 1/2 months following abdominal surgery.
The three-time All Star hadn't played since Jan. 24 after originally being diagnosed with a groin injury. Further examination revealed an abdominal tear and he had surgery Feb. 1, forcing him to miss representing Canada in the Olympics.
Jovanovski, who had 28 points in 39 games before the injury, didn't resume skating until two weeks ago and finally returned to practice with his teammates this week.
Jovanovski will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.
To make room for Jovanovski, the Canucks sent defenseman Kevin Bieksa sent down to Manitoba of the AHL.