Teddy Blueger will be a game-time decision for the Penguins against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday (7 p.m. ET; SNE, SNO, SNP, ATTSN-PT, BSFL, ESPN+, NHL LIVE).
The forward has missed 16 games with a fractured jaw since last playing in a 3-2 shootout win against the Winnipeg Jets on Jan. 23. Blueger had surgery Jan. 24, and was expected to be sidelined 6-8 weeks.
"It just creates a deeper lineup, a more balanced lineup," coach Mike Sullivan said regarding Blueger's potential return. "Gives us the ability to play guys in certain situations that help them play to their strengths."
Blueger said he plans to play with a full face shield he's used since first practicing Feb. 22. He practiced at fourth-line center with left wing Zach Aston-Reese and right wing Brock McGinn on Monday.
Blueger has scored 17 points (eight goals, nine assists) in 40 games.
"I think everything that I've done leading up to [returning], all the contact, the puck protection, all that stuff has felt really good," Blueger said. "For me, whatever role I'm put in, that's my job and that's what I'm going to focus on." -- Wes Crosby