2013 Stanley Cup Playoffs – Wild’s Jason Pominville Close to Making His Return?
By Dakota Case
Apr 18, 2013; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Sharks defenseman Justin Braun (61) and Minnesota Wild right wing Jason Pominville (29) collide during the third period at the HP Pavilion. The San Jose Sharks defeated the Minnesota Wild 6-1. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY SportsAccording to Michael Russo of the Star Tribune, Jason Pominville is on the ice for today’s morning skate.
Two days in a row on the ice for #mnwild RW Jason Pominville. Very good sign that he felt good after waking up this morning
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) May 7, 2013
That is a very good sign, indeed, Mr. Russo. It remains to be seen whether or not he’ll be in tonight’s lineup for Game Four against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Fourth line is Dowell centering Veilleux and Mitchell in morning skate. Pominville and Rupp not on a regular line #mnwild
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) May 7, 2013
Gone Puck Wild will keep you updated as the situation develops.
UPDATE: Head Coach Mike Yeo and Pominville had a good, long talk during the morning skate. I can only imagine just how much Pominville wants to get back out on the ice tonight.
Pominville says Yeo will make call if he skates in warmups #mnwild
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) May 7, 2013
The decision ultimately rests with Yeo. Pominville’s return could certainly boost Minnesota’s offensive numbers, but there’s no point in rushing a player that’s very important to the future of the franchise. If Yeo doesn’t think Pominville is 110% ready to play, he likely won’t play him. Also, this is just his third practice since the Dustin Brown incident.
Yeo on Pominville: "We'll have to see. Another good step." #mnwild
— Michael Russo (@RussoHockey) May 7, 2013
At least it’s a step in the right direction.