61 Justin Braun D

Sharks' Justin Braun: Breaks 10-game funk

Braun also added two PIM in the contest. The 32-year-old blueliner has 15 points in 67 games this season, a large step down from the 33 points he recorded last year but much more in line with his career norms. Braun also has 94 hits and 109 blocked shots to his name, which could make him useful to fantasy owners in deeper formats.

Sharks' Justin Braun: Gets involved in high-scoring loss

Braun provided the secondary assist on center Joe Thornton's hat-trick-clinching goal. His fight came earlier in the game, as he dropped the mitts with Bruins forward Chris Wagner. Since returning from a knee injury in January, Braun has five assists in 14 games. He typically serves a more defensive role on ice, so his fantasy value remains limited.

Sharks' Justin Braun: Sneaking back into lineup

Pending his removal from injured reserve, Braun reportedly will link up with Tim Heed in the upcoming contest. It's a third-pairing assignment, and we'll be able to determine whether the defenseman is near 100 percent if he ends up coming close to the 19:55 of ice time that he's averaged through 42 games this season. The 31-year-old remains a streaky offensive contributor with his upside seemingly capped at about 35 points per season.

Sharks' Justin Braun: Not looking good for Thursday

Braun needs a miraculous turnaround in order to be cleared for the upcoming game in Sin City. As far as we know, the defenseman hasn't been able to practice since sustaining his injury last Wednesday, and it's confirmed that he remains on injured reserve for the time being. Still, we'll keep you posted if it starts to look like he may be able to return ahead of Saturday's home game against the Senators.

Sharks' Justin Braun: Lands on IR

Braun's placement on IR was almost certainly made retroactive to Jan. 2, but he'll still miss San Jose's next three contests at a minimum. The recently recalled Jacob Middleton will likely slide into Braun's spot in the lineup for Saturday's matchup with Tampa Bay.