Alec Martinez and Tanner Pearson Return to Practice
Two injured Kings have returned to practice.
Alec Martinez and Tanner Pearson are once again skating with the team.
It’s the first time in a few weeks for both players.
Martinez has been out with a concussion since February 7th, when the Kings were in Tampa Bay to take on the Lightning.
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Before being allowed to suit up and skate Martinez had to have two good days riding an exercise bike. After clearing that feat on Wednesday and Thursday of last week Martinez was given the green-light to skate.
Martinez skated last Friday with the team, and again today. After the team finished full practice Martinez took to the ice, donning a red-no contact jersey. Martinez worked on stickhandling, shooting and his skating. According to L.A. Kings Insider Jon Rosen, Martinez hasn’t undertaken anything strenuous yet. Martinez’s return is going to be gradual and slow.
The time-table on his return is still shaky. After the Kings move to acquire Andrej Sekera from the Carolina Hurricanes there’s no need to rush Martinez back. L.A. needs Martinez for the push to make the playoffs, but they will need him a lot more once they get in.
Pearson broke his ankle sliding into the end-boards on January 10th during a game where the Kings were hosting the Winnipeg Jets.
Jan 10, 2015; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings left wing Tanner Pearson (70) leaves the ice after suffering an apparent injury in the second period of the game against the Winnipeg Jets at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
Pearson has been missing out on 70’s line scoring streaks. He’s itching to get back it.
Word is Pearson skated on Friday, but his ankle was still extremely swollen. That makes it painful to get in and out of the hockey-boot. Pearson didn’t take to the ice this afternoon, though a red-no contact jersey hung in his locker.
Pearson’s still a ways off from being game ready. Imagine if he were to try to play and blocked a shot with his bad foot . . . it’s painful to think about.
The two players are in the same boat. They want to get back on the game ice. They know, just like everyone else, the team needs them. But they still have to wait.
The Los Angeles Kings next game is tomorrow night in Colorado against the Avalanche. Puck-drop is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. PST at the Pepsi Center in Denver.
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October 19, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Kings defenseman Alec Martinez (27) moves the puck as left wing Tanner Pearson (70) and goalie Jonathan Quick (32) defend against the Minnesota Wild during the first period at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports