P. Stastny gets assist for Avs in return after 26-game absence

DENVER -- Paul Stastny returned to Colorado's lineup Tuesday night after missing the last 26 games to recover from a broken forearm.

The 23-year-old center underwent surgery after blocking a slap shot from Phoenix's Olli Jokinen on Dec. 23.

At the time of his injury, Stastny was leading the team in scoring with 10 goals and 21 assists in 34 games.

Stastny, who was cleared after a Monday practice in suburban Atlanta, assisted on linemate Milan Hejduk's goal in the first period against the Atlanta Thrashers.