Coyotes' Mike Smith: Takes ice for first time since sustaining injury

Smith (lower body) skated and took shots for the first time Wednesday since sustaining a lower-body injury on Oct. 18, Sarah McLellan of AZCentral sports reports.

Smith has played in only two games this season due to his ailment but his increased workload indicates that he's nearing a return. Coyotes' head coach Dave Tippett said that the 34-year-old taking the ice is a "good sign" but also acknowledged that his return to game action is at least a week away.