79 Micheal Ferland LW

Hurricanes' Micheal Ferland: Bags helper in return to action

The Carolina forward had been out of action since April 15, but Ferland made his return in this one, picking up an assist for his efforts. Along with his apple, the 27-year-old fired three shots on goal and dished out two hits in Thursday's Game 1 defeat.

Hurricanes' Micheal Ferland: Ready to rock

Ferland has been sidelined for nearly a month due to an upper-body injury, so it wouldn't be surprising to see Carolina limit his ice time during his return to action. The fact that the 27-year-old winger is expected to skate with Jordan Martinook and Greg McKegg on the Hurricanes' fourth line for Game 1 supports that notion.

Hurricanes' Micheal Ferland: Targeting Game 1 return

Ferland was originally targeting Game 4 versus the Islanders for a potential return to the lineup, but instead missed his eighth consecutive game due to his upper-body issue. The Manitoba native figures to slot into a top-six role once cleared to return, likely bumping Warren Foegele off the top line, though putting Ferland in a third-line role would spread out the Canes' scoring options.

Hurricanes' Micheal Ferland: Can't answer bell

Friday's game will be the eighth consecutive contest Ferland has missed due to an upper-body injury he sustained back on April 15. The Hurricanes forward has shown signs of improvement recently, but considering Carolina's commanding series lead, it seems appropriate to give Ferland all the time he needs.

Hurricanes' Micheal Ferland: Nearing return to action

Ferland will miss a seventh straight contest Wednesday, but he's clearly made significant progress in his recovery, and shouldn't be sidelined for much longer. Another update on the 27-year-old winger's status will undoubtedly surface prior to puck drop for Game 4.