News: Adam McQuaid (shoulder) was able to absorb some contact at Sunday's workout.
Analysis: That said, Adam McQuaid won't play Monday against the Hurricanes, but the rugged blueliner is clearly moving closer to a return. Once McQuaid is back, Matt Bartkowski is likely to join the likes of Aaron Johnson and Wade Redden in the B's reserve bleuliner mix.
News: Nathan Beaulieu has been recalled by the Canadiens, Renaud Lavoie of RDS.ca reports.
Analysis: Nathan Beaulieu, who has recorded 28 points and 56 PIMs in 64 games with AHL Hamilton in his first year as a pro, returns to the Habs with fellow blueliner Alexei Emelin having suffered an injury Saturday against the Bruins. In his previous stint with the big club, the 2011 first-rounder picked up an assist in two contests.
News: Ben Bishop is slated to start Sunday's game against the Caps, Erik Erlendsson of the Tampa Tribune reports.
Analysis: It will be the third straight start -- and second in as many days for Ben Bishop -- who is clearly the Lightning's go-to guy in nets after coming over from the Sens this past week in trade for Cory Conacher and a fourth-round pick.
News: Mike Fisher (hand) did not make the trip to Chicago for Sunday's game, Joshua Cooper of The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Mike Fisher will sit out Sunday's game against the Blackhawks and will be replaced in the lineup by Austin Watson, who was called up by the team Sunday.
News: Jimmy Howard got the start in net Sunday, NHL.com's Dan Rosen reports.
Analysis: Jimmy Howard is 16-11 with a 2.45 GAA and a .916 save percentage this season.
News: Andy McDonald is out Sunday with the flu, NHL.com's Lou Korac reports.
Analysis: Andy McDonald's absence could open up more ice time for Jaden Schwartz, who does not have much value this season but could be a factor next year.
News: Joffrey Lupul (upper body) skated on Sunday morning for the first time since being injured in Thursday's game against Philadelphia, TSN.ca reports.
Analysis: Joffrey Lupul had passed all of his concussion tests but was still dealing with a sore neck from the hit he took Thursday which is why he wasn't on the ice for practice Saturday. Obviously feeling better on Sunday, Lupul opted to join the skate Sunday and it appears as if his return is imminent. You'll want him back in your lineup as soon as he returns.
News: Austin Watson has been called up by the Predators, The Tennessean reports.
Analysis: Austin Watson leads the Admirals and is fifth in the AHL among rookies with 20 goals this season. He gives the Predators added depth at right wing and will replace Mike Fisher in the team's lineup Sunday.
News: Elliot will start in net Sunday, NHL.com's Lou Korac reports.
Analysis: This season, Elliot is 5-6 with with a 3.43 GAA and a .866 save percentage.
News: The Flames have recalled Sven Baertschi.
Analysis: Sven Baertschi has registered one assist in 10 games with the Flames this season. He provides the team with depth at left wing.
