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I was sitting next to Darren Pang this afternoon discussing Blues D-man Erik Johnson right when the former number one pick took a deflection right off the chops.
It appears Johnson, who lost three teeth, should be ok although his availability for tomorrow night's game won't be known until after he's checked out in the morning. There is no player on the Blues roster I am pulling for more than Johnson to have a strong second half and finish the season strong. It goes without saying he's going to have to stay healthy.
After Johnson left the ice several of his temmates gathered around to pick up the missing chicklets.
Andy McDonald set for a Friday return...
The speedy forward skated over the weekend with hopes of returning Tuesday night but he's not quite there. He should have no problem getting himself back in time to play Edmonton Friday night. After practicing Monday afternoon McDonald just didn't feel he's where he needs to be to play in an NHL game.
Colaiacovo still not skating....
Blues D-man Carlo Colaiacovo is still recovering from a serious eye injury that caused temporary impaired vision. The vision is slowly returning but he has yet to be cleared to get back on the ice. I'm told he is showing progress and we should know more tomorrow.
Barret Jackman returns...
The Blues rugged D-man returns tomorrow night after missing three games with a groin injury. Jackman says he could have played last Wednesday in Calgary but took extra precaution.
Halak still the man…
Goaltender Jaro Halak is expected to start Tuesday night. Despite not starting last Wednesday in Calgary, Halak will be given every opportunity to carry the load moving forward. There is still no question of Halak being the number one guy heading into the second half but the Blues are hopeful he regained his focus during the break. It appeared he had mentally shut 'er down going into the long weekend. Blues fans are hopeful the work he did last Wednesday with goaltending coach Corey Hirsch pays off.
Payne takes one for the team…
Speaking of Payne, the Blues Head Coach took a puck off the jaw Monday afternoon and didn’t feel right afterwards. His face was noticeably swollen and he was going to have it looked at before leaving the rink.
David Backes was given the day off as he made his way back from the NHL All Star Game.
Please visit www.truehockey.com for more on the Blues and the NHL
More to come,
Andy Strickland
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St Louis Blues Blogger •1380 ESPN • 
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