When last Arizona Coyotes fans saw Oliver Ekman-Larsson, it was the second game of the season.
The Coyotes captain, however, is nearing a return, as seen in his skating Wednesday in the team's practice.
The veteran defenseman had three assists in the team's first win, 5-3 over the San Jose Sharks on Jan. 16. But a third-period hit from the Sharks' Evander Kane knocked Ekman-Larsson off balance, and his body crashed awkwardly into the boards behind the Coyotes net.
Ekman-Larsson left the game and his injury was later announced as one in his lower body. Two days later he was placed on injured reserve, and has been working his way back to full strength.