Forward Justin Abdelkader to Return to Detroit Red Wings Lineup for Game 3

After playing without him for the first two games of their playoff series with the Tampa Bay Lightning, the Detroit Red Wings will welcome back forward Justin Abdelkader just in time for Game 3 Tuesday, April 21st, in Detroit.

A hand injury caused Abdelkader to not only miss the first two games of the Red Wings' series with the Lighnting, but also the final four games of the regular season.

According to ESPN, Abdelkader is expected to play on a line with Henrik Zetterberg and Gustav Nyquist.

Abdelkader had a career-season for the Red Wings, scoring 23 goals to go along with 21 assists.

Defenseman Brendan Smith will also return to the lineup for the Red Wings.

Abdelkader was drafted by the Detroit Red Wings in 2005. He spent three years at Michigan State and portions of two seasons with the Grand Rapids Griffins of the AHL.

The Detroit Red Wings face the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 3 of their playoff series Tuesday night, April 21st, at the Joe Louis Arena in Detroit. The puck drops at 7pm.

[ESPN]