The Elias Pettersson Calder Trophy campaign may be back on track.
Less than two weeks after he collided with Canadiens rookie Jesperi Kotkaniemi and suffered a knee injury, Pettersson skated prior to, and then partook in, Wednesday's optional skate.
Pettersson back on the ice for an optional game day skate. pic.twitter.com/KzeeKWzien
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) January 16, 2019
The rookie sensation, who has missed the last three games, spoke to reporters following the skate and noted that he's "feeling good and trying to get the condition[ing] back" and hopes to play Friday against the Buffalo Sabres.
"No pain in [crossovers]," he added regarding any lingering effects from the MCL sprain. "It feels good when I do that type of stuff so it's just like making progress"
Ruled out for Wednesday's game against Edmonton, Pettersson also skated on Tuesday. Head coach Travis Green noted on Wednesday it "was a good sign that he skated hard again today" and that he is still listed as day-to-day. Pettersson is expected to participate in a full team practice before suiting up for a game.
Elias Pettersson skated on his own today, as well as with the team, and is hopeful to return Friday. @_EPettersson discusses the hit and the rehab. pic.twitter.com/wTJChZF6sr
— Vancouver Canucks (@Canucks) January 16, 2019
Despite missing nine of the Canucks' 47 games this season due to the knee injury and a concussion earlier in the season, the 20-year-old center is still leading all rookies in goals (22) and points (42). The closest rookie to him in points entering Wednesday is the Senators' Colin White, who has 26 points.