Joel Eriksson Ek Returns to Wild Lineup for Matchup in Tampa Bay

Joel Eriksson Ek is set to return to the Minnesota Wild lineup for Tuesday's road game against the Tampa Bay Lightning, according to Joe Smith of The Athletic. The forward had been dealing with a lower-body injury but has progressed enough to suit up for this critical cross-conference clash. His presence provides a significant boost to the Wild's center depth and special teams units as they look to secure points on the road. He is expected to resume his usual heavy-usage role in the lineup.